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St. Kitts and Nevis eyes criminal justice reform

Last Updated on Friday, 12 December 2014, 21:58 by GxMedia

Attorney General, Jason Hamilton

San Juan, Dec 12 (EFE).- St. Kitts and Nevis is working on a legislative reform to improve aspects of the justice system ranging from courtroom procedures to rehabilitation of offenders, the government said Friday.

The attorney general and justice minister, Jason Hamilton, has proposed amendments to the Jury Act, the Criminal Procedures Act and Prison Act.

The changes would establish frameworks “in line with international standards” for the conduct of criminal trials and operating prisons, among other issues.

“Consideration would be given as well to the question of plea-bargaining legislation and to the introduction of a system of parole for prisoners,” Hamilton said in a statement.

The package also calls for consultation on the decriminalization of marijuana and on how to strengthen capacities “to fight against money laundering, terrorist financing and crimes that are predicate to those offenses,” he said.

“This is not only critical for the integrity of our national security but also in keeping with our regional and international obligations,” he emphasized.

Prime Minister Denzil Douglas said that an appropriate legislative framework is critical to the continued improvement of public safety in St. Kitts and Nevis.