In a decisive move to enhance public safety and strengthen citizen security, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis passed the Prison (Amendment) Bill, 2025 in the National Assembly on Thursday, 15th May. The bill introduces significantly harsher penalties for anyone caught smuggling contraband into His Majesty’s Prison.
The Prison Amendment Bill 2025, presented by Minister of National Security, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, represents a critical modernisation of the decades-old Prison Act. The updated legislation boosts fines for contraband smuggling from EC$1,000 to EC$50,000 and raises the maximum prison sentence from six months to ten years.
Additionally, the amendment expands the list of banned items to include mobile phones, SIM cards, knives, and illegal drugs—items increasingly linked to criminal activity and internal prison disorder.
“These changes will make our prison safer, and they will help to stop any nefarious activities behind bars,” said Dr. Drew during the Assembly session. “The only activities we want behind bars, Madame Speaker, are activities of rehabilitation that could increase the possibility of their successful reintegration into our society.”
Dr. Drew emphasised that a secure prison environment is essential to national security and public trust. “A safe prison is part of our overall citizen security agenda,” he said, reinforcing the government’s holistic approach to crime prevention and community wellbeing.
The prime minister also noted the government’s commitment to rehabilitation, highlighting the ELEVATE Programme as a key initiative designed to support inmates in acquiring skills and tools for reintegration into society.
The passage of the Prison (Amendment) Bill, 2025 forms part of the government’s broader strategy to modernise the justice system, reduce crime, and ensure a safer Saint Kitts and Nevis. It reflects the administration’s dual approach of toughening legal deterrents while promoting rehabilitation and reintegration.
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