By Belize Live News Staff: Young people accused of major crimes in Belize could face adult charges under legal reforms now being considered by government.
The proposal is part of a wider review of the Firearms Act, the Misuse of Drugs Act and the Crime Control and Criminal Justice Act, announced by National Security Minister Michel Chebat. Other measures being discussed include mandatory custodial sentences for first time offenders and new provisions targeting synthetic drugs.
Chebat acknowledged that charging minors as adults is not a step government wants to take lightly. To offer young people another path, government plans to launch a Second Chance programme for youth between 15 and 23.
“This is not where we want to go, and that is why we will be implementing our Second Chance program, because we believe in our young people,” Chebat said.
The programme is expected to bring together several ministries, churches, non governmental organisations and the business community.
Government also intends to raise penalties for adults who use minors to commit crimes, a practice Chebat says is luring young Belizeans into a life of crime.
The proposals are still being discussed, and government has not said when draft legislation will be ready.
