Re: The Economics of Crime

Great piece. I am with Friends of Belize 100%.

Re: The Economics of Crime

Interesting piece. While some of it I agree with, it surely sounds like a promo for Friends of Belize. Is Mr. Smith a part of that group too?

Re: The Economics of Crime

Interesting piece. While some of it I agree with, it surely sounds like a promo for Friends of Belize. Is Mr. Smith a part of that group too?

Re: The Economics of Crime

Godfey...although I disagree with you a lot...I must agree that this is a good piece. I especially liked the fact that you have called out EVAN X on something that he loves to do: put statements out there as if they are gospel whilst offering not a shred of evidence to back them up. The primary one being that he is the voice of grassroots Belizeans whilst he is nothing more than one man serving his own dellusional causes who is trapped in an unflattering time warp in 1969.

Re: The Economics of Crime

correction: * delusional

Re: The Economics of Crime

Sounds like the first Policy of that Government formed in Washington for Belize named "Frenz of Belize". So sad that we realized foreigners wants our resources and our country but its SHAME on those who wants to give it to them for a piece of the pie.

Now one can see the reason for the article "Basta Briceno", John is the only person standing in the way since Dean is wounded.

Love BELIZE, is shoud be for belizeans.

Re: The Economics of Crime

Well Done!

Re: The Economics of Crime

Godfrey,

Flashpoint is on target. Beyond the 'rigmarole' I think you raise two issues which in my opinion require further debate and analysis - that is the lask of a sense of Belizean nationalism and the political economy of wealth creation and distribution in a small developing Caribbean economy.

The first is something I have given much thought to and have started research on this matter for the purpose of writing a book which I will title "From the Battle to the Border: Perspectives on Belizean Nationalism". It is in some respects though connected to the issue of wealth creation and distribution within Belize and I may have to give consideration to dealing with that matter in one of the chapters. I will have to see.

I have been away from Belize for a significant amount of time over the past 2-3 years and so do not get a chance to consistently read the Flashpoint articles. I have however enjoyed the ones which I have read and feel that you have achieved the objective which you state - that of providing views and opinions on matters of socio, political, and economic interests to Belize and Belizeans.

I am one of those people that remain disheartened and completely disillusioned by the brand and style of partisan politics that has emerged in and has come to characterize the political landscape in Belize. I was always of the position, more so now, that governing on the basis of partisan objectives - at least the way it is practiced in Belize - cannot and will not lead to development. The two are just too much at odds though not necessarily diametrically opposed: they can be brought into alignment but that requires the kind of political maturity which is neither present nor obvious on the horizon.

Anyway lest I be accused of writing my own 'flashpoint' :) Keep the quill flowing...this is particularly the type of debate and discussion that a downward spiralling Belize needs if it is to pull itself out of the abyss to which is most certainly headed.

Re: The Economics of Crime

Godfrey,

Flashpoint is on target. Beyond the 'rigmarole' I think you raise two issues which in my opinion require further debate and analysis - that is the lask of a sense of Belizean nationalism and the political economy of wealth creation and distribution in a small developing Caribbean economy.

The first is something I have given much thought to and have started research on this matter for the purpose of writing a book which I will title "From the Battle to the Border: Perspectives on Belizean Nationalism". It is in some respects though connected to the issue of wealth creation and distribution within Belize and I may have to give consideration to dealing with that matter in one of the chapters. I will have to see.

I have been away from Belize for a significant amount of time over the past 2-3 years and so do not get a chance to consistently read the Flashpoint articles. I have however enjoyed the ones which I have read and feel that you have achieved the objective which you state - that of providing views and opinions on matters of socio, political, and economic interests to Belize and Belizeans.

I am one of those people that remain disheartened and completely disillusioned by the brand and style of partisan politics that has emerged in and has come to characterize the political landscape in Belize. I was always of the position, more so now, that governing on the basis of partisan objectives - at least the way it is practiced in Belize - cannot and will not lead to development. The two are just too much at odds though not necessarily diametrically opposed: they can be brought into alignment but that requires the kind of political maturity which is neither present nor obvious on the horizon.

Anyway lest I be accused of writing my own 'flashpoint' :) Keep the quill flowing...this is particularly the type of debate and discussion that a downward spiralling Belize needs if it is to pull itself out of the abyss to which is most certainly headed.

Re: The Economics of Crime

To suggest that wealth is not being generated in Belize and leaving the country is llaughable. I don't believe that Mr. Hyde is talking about the redistribution of wealth, after all even the largest capitalist countries have social programs and services. Every true Belizean would certainly feel a sense of pride to see Belize represented on the world stage in sports or the performing arts. Look at the pride we felt as a nation when Marion Jones held up the Belizean flag at the Olympic games even though she was officially representing the United States of America.
Believe it or not the writings of Mr. Hyde is always a food for thought and provide a valuable lesson in Belizean history which is often neglected by the schools.

Re: The Economics of Crime

PHIL, the writings of Mr. Hyde are nothing more than incessant ramblings about UBAD (the late 60s to early 70s) and the warped musings of a man who believes he has much more of an impact on anything than he really does!

Re: The Economics of Crime

I have to agree; the solution for crime is economic growth. Economic opportunities, however, does not come solely from Government. Immigrants don't seem to have a problem with growing their personal economic standing, and I am not speaking only of the blatant wealth creation in the Middle Eastern, Indian and Chinese populations off the backs of poor Belizeans, but even the more modest gains by the army of taco vendors, construction workers, market vendors and farmers pouring in from our neighbouring countries are impressive in contrast to the growing poverty in the Belizean, predominantly black, south side population. The various talking heads ranging from talk show hosts to local and imported celebrity activists a la Oceana to newly born all around experts from Belizeans for Justice do nothing to address this situation. Instead of preaching to the masses to improve their standing by grabbing the same opportunities being gobbled by immigrants, they fight against the government's attempt to bring law and order usinf tough measures. Instead of encouraging the nation's poor and dependent to uplift themselves though education, they lead action against drilling for oil; the one potential economic boom that can change the face of this country.

Our biggest problem is not poverty, it's complacency by those that understand the benefit of innovation and productivity in economic growth. The voice of those influenced by special interest keeps drowning out the voice of common sense, and no one is arguing.

The truth is not arrived at by majority vote. Politicians won't change bad ways, they learn to adapt and ride the wave into office, and will only react to what the prevailing voice is saying the people want. Unless the talking heads change their tune and start talking with one voice to influence our people to learn, to grow, to build themselves, to work together as a community, and to grab opportunity sitting right in front of their faces, and to reject patrimony as the default, I'm afraid all we have to look forward to is the Ghettoization of Belize City, more guns, more crime, and a slow overtake by imported cultures that get it.

Re: The Economics of Crime

Plato . . . you lost me at "blatant wealth creation in the Middle Eastern, Indian and Chinese populations off the backs of poor Belizeans."

As far as I can tell, our Middle Eastern, Indian, and Chinese merchant class live humble lives, despite the "blatant wealth" they accumulate.

The problem of violet crime, by "poor (Black) Belizeans," is rooted in their desire to emulate the BIG life depicted by Barrow, and his son, the Jew. Granted, the issue of violent crime was there before Barrow, but what kind of (Black) role model has he been? My intent was not to focus on the issue of race, but you brought it up.

With regard to environmental special interest groups, they are working to protect the land, air, and sea which we all share. Criticizing them for high crime levels is like blaming the victim for the crime.

I agree that economic growth is a good thing, but will it solve crime? Hell no! However, I do believe that solving crime will create an environment in which the economy can begin to expand into new areas . . . especially tourism within our historic Belize City.

Re: The Economics of Crime

That's cute, Aristotle, you believe that modesty excuses blatant wealth. My intent was not racial at all; it is an economic reality that immigrant wealth is growing even faster than politician wealth. Even PUP crony wealth ran out because it's creation was never built on strategic planning, but on the same patrimony that keeps poor Belizeans poor.

The role model of today's pop culture, unfortunately embodied by Barrow's son, is but a small contributor to the poverty that leads young black men into the allure of gang culture. Those same young black Belizeans, given the encouragement to build wealth though education, entrepreneurship, preached by the role models on the media, who instead choose to preach entitlement, would live a much different life.

The talking heads I speak of is not only the Environmental groups. The NGO agenda is completely different, they create and promote causes that fill their consultancy bank accounts, pure and simple, and advocacy sells more than positive encouragement.

The Belize potential remains locked away because those that profess to be watchdogs confuse their role and instead take the role of roadblock. Every policy that is developed by either government and proposed is dissected, probed, ripped apart and peppered with crystal ball presuppositions. These policies that often have great merit end up stillborn, resulting in a national paralysis because the opinions of the 2 cents cam idiots become the national voice.

Until these roadblocks agree instead to be watchdogs to ensure that once sensible government policy is implemented they don't trample on individual rights, we will remain stagnant, and the enlightened immigrant capitalists will remain hidden under their humble facade, while secretly bribing government officials to pave their way to economic domination. (Sorry Aristotle, i hope that last sentence was not too racist for you.)

Re: The Economics of Crime

That's cute, Aristotle, you believe that modesty excuses blatant wealth. My intent was not racial at all; it is an economic reality that immigrant wealth is growing even faster than politician wealth. Even PUP crony wealth ran out because it's creation was never built on strategic planning, but on the same patrimony that keeps poor Belizeans poor.

The role model of today's pop culture, unfortunately embodied by Barrow's son, is but a small contributor to the poverty that leads young black men into the allure of gang culture. Those same young black Belizeans, given the encouragement to build wealth though education, entrepreneurship, preached by the role models on the media, who instead choose to preach entitlement, would live a much different life.

The talking heads I speak of is not only the Environmental groups. The NGO agenda is completely different, they create and promote causes that fill their consultancy bank accounts, pure and simple, and advocacy sells more than positive encouragement.

The Belize potential remains locked away because those that profess to be watchdogs confuse their role and instead take the role of roadblock. Every policy that is developed by either government and proposed is dissected, probed, ripped apart and peppered with crystal ball presuppositions. These policies that often have great merit end up stillborn, resulting in a national paralysis because the opinions of the 2 cents cam idiots become the national voice.

Until these roadblocks agree instead to be watchdogs to ensure that once sensible government policy is implemented they don't trample on individual rights, we will remain stagnant, and the enlightened immigrant capitalists will remain hidden under their humble facade, while secretly bribing government officials to pave their way to economic domination. (Sorry Aristotle, i hope that last sentence was not too racist for you.)

Re: The Economics of Crime

The problem in Belize is that our people want things and they do not want to work for it. If immigrants can leave their country in search of a better life and find it in Belize then why can't our Belizeans do the same? We are just a lazy bunch of complainers who want everything to fall in our laps!

Re: The Economics of Crime

Plato, my young student, you speak of "individual rights," yet ignore the right of immigrants to work hard and earn a successful living?

Yes, humility is a necessary component to great wealth. Humility, by nature, removes any expectation or belief in "entitlement," which you rightly criticize.

You seem to argue that "blatant wealth" creation is the driving force behind crime? I suppose you are right...if the poor didn't have the rich to rob, how would they eat?

Nonetheless, what is really cute is your belief that NGO's are real roadblocks to development in Belize. This UDP government does what it likes, when it likes. Nationalizations, ignoring due process, drug smuggling, lethal action against protesters, nepotism, and even the cannibalism of their own. When they "bow" to supposed NGO pressure, it's because of political expedience. Don't believe the hype.

Sadly, Plato, your dialectic is lacking on this issue.

Re: The Economics of Crime

Aristotle and Plato: If the two of you really want to get into a "Johnson" waving/measuring competition why don't you arrange for a private audience instead of subjecting the rest of us to it?

Re: The Economics of Crime

Dont worry, Said.. my Johnson has been put away...

Re: The Economics of Crime

Godfrey, interesting piece as always.

I am amazed why it is that Belizeans seems so scared of the rest of the world. For whatever reason we can't seem to take a global perspective on things and it is killing us. FDI is important to any country especially small developing ones like Belize. Our problem in is that very little effort is expended on real wealth creation. We are very good at transferring wealth though--usually from GOB (the people) to political flunkies.

When FDI meets an educated and motivated population that is working toward clearly identifiable goals of national development guided by a sound fiscal/economic policy everybody will benefit. Sadly there is no clear economic policy, that too like our national security strategy resides only in the feeble mind of some minister.

Just so you know, there are some serious cash in Belize but we have an aversion to risks, the politicians have spoiled our so called businessmen. In the real world there are no guaranteed rate of return you must compete and there are real risks. When the foreigners send their monies to Belize (FDI) they are taking a risk on us when so many of us are scared to take a chance on ourselves.

All over the world there are foreign investors and those that keep talking about all the wealth that is supposedly leaving Belize would catch a heart attack if they learn how much "wealth" leaves the great US. That is how the game is played Jack. Now the way I see it, we have two choices, (1) sit in the corner and talk about how everybody is taking advantage of us or (2) find some Zenida beads and start the journey to true economic development.

I love you Belize

SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL & RURAL FARMERS:

The dramatic expansion of industrial agriculture (or factory farming) has made it increasingly difficult for small family farmers in Belize, Central and South America to stay in business. Instead, the food industry has become dominated by a handful of “giant corporations,” which benefit from government policies that favor large-scale production. There are now nearly five thousand fewer farms in Belize, than there were in the 1980's. Family farmers are being forced out of business at an alarming rate. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, it is estimated that every week approximately (30) farmers leave their land, to navigate other lively-hood, as a means to earn a living. As a result, there are now nearly five hundred fewer “farms” in Belize, than there were between the 1980's and 1990's. Of the remaining farms, only a slight percentage is family operations. As established “family farms” are shut down, or forced out of business, because they are not getting enough support from Central Government. It is not that they are being replaced by new farms and young farmers. Very few young people become farmers today, and half of all Belizean farmers are between the ages of 45 and 65, while only 6% of all farmers are under the age of 35. Some people ask whether these sorts of changes are inevitable; they wonder if family farming is simply out-of-date in today’s global economy. Or they may think so: if industrial agriculture can supply more food at a lower cost, doesn’t that benefit consumers? If food were like “car parts” or other consumer products, it might. But because our health, our environment, and our communities are so greatly affected by food production, the way food is produced and shipped matters just as much as what’s in the food. For many people, the connection between farm and fridge is vague at best. In an age where a handful of corporate food processors determine most of what we find in the supermarket, it is critical for consumers to learn about where their food comes from and make their own informed choices. Why are “family farms” important? In addition to producing fresh, nutritious, high-quality foods, small “family farms” provide a wealth of benefits for their local communities and regions. Perhaps most importantly, “family farmers,” serve as responsible stewards of the land. Unlike industrial agriculture operations, which pollute communities with chemical pesticides, noxious fumes and excess manure, small “family farmers,” live on or near their farms and strive to preserve the surrounding environment for future generations. Since these farmers have a vested interest in their communities, they are more likely to use sustainable farming techniques to protect natural resources and human health. The existence of family farms also guarantees the preservation of green space within the community. Unfortunately, once a family farm is forced out of business, the farmland is often sold for development, and the quality land and soil for farming are lost. Independent family farms also play a vital role in rural economies. In addition to providing jobs to local people, “family farmers,” also help support small businesses by purchasing goods and services within their communities. Meanwhile, industrial agriculture operations employ as few workers as possible and typically purchase supplies, equipment, and building materials from outside the local community. Rural areas are then left with high rates of unemployment and very little opportunity for economic growth. Finally, “family farmers,” benefit society by boosting democratic values in their communities through active civic participation, and by helping to preserve an essential connection between consumers, their food, and the land upon which this food is produced. The loss of small “family farms” has dramatically reduced our supply of safe, fresh, sustainably-grown foods; it has contributed to the economic and social disintegration of rural communities; and it is eliminating an important aspect of our national heritage. If we lose our family farmers, we'll lose the diversity in our food supply, and what we eat will be dictated to us by IMPORTATION and a few large corporations. Clearly, family farms are a valuable resource worth preserving. Now, more than ever, it’s important to realize that family farms are a valuable resource worth preserving. Sustainable Family Farming, Just because a farm calls itself a “family farm,” it’s not necessarily sustainable. During the 1980’s, many “family farms” grew to sustainable proportions, and today over half of the largest farms in the country are called “family farms.” So if you truly want to support family farmers, make sure you buy your food from small, independent “family farms,” that use sustainable farming methods to produce their food. The Future of Belizean Farming is very essential. It's not too late to save rural farms, and family farms! Over the last several years, there has been an explosion of interest in small “family farms,” local food, and the preservation of rural communities and their heritage. Chefs, food lovers, citizens, parents, activists, students and many others are coming together to rediscover the benefits of eating sustainably-raised, locally grown food. There are organizations that are encouraging people to slow down and enjoy home-cooked meals made from wholesome foods raised sustainably: we must support our local “family farms.”*

*Educational Impact on our Society:*

Students who are interested in pursuing "higher education," and become Impact Scholars in their societies, should be awarded every means to achieve that "just objective." Our Political and Religious Leaders, has this "realistic responsibility," to provide the opportunities to assist "young people," to achieve and realized their dreams, and cultivate their fullest potential. There should be "work-shops outside of school hours, and off-site locations." Work-shops can assist students, in realizing a sense of responsibility:

Ø Learn to navigate college, planning, and the application process.

Ø Successfully apply for what-ever financial school award, that is available to them.

Ø Prepare to pursue higher education.

Ø Broaden aware-ness of their college options, and help prepare them for the admission process.

Ø Obtain exposure to gain-full careers in the trades, law, business and accounting professions.

Ø Connect with mentors, who can inspire them, and share experience, and act as “sounding boards,” for career and academic decisions.

Ø Gain exposure to leader-ships networks.

Ø Motivate high school juniors, of “minority back-grounds,” in certain demographics.

IMPACT’S PROGRESS:

To encourage our “young people,” there has to be a Community Initiative that provides and supports Academically Talented Young People, to encourage them to excel within the High School Systems. This Initiative, must provide our “young people,” with the academic tools, to strategize and navigate the “college planning, and financial sustainability process.” Government, must Initiate an “impact program,” as part of it’s broader corporate responsibility commitment to motivate, educate, and develop the next generation of “young leaders.” These newly minted High School Graduates, will Matriculate into College, and Universities nation-wide.

This is ‘2011, a time for “new beginnings, and great expectations.” As we journey on in these “un-certain times,” with Disasters, Famine, and War in different parts of the world, we none-the-less set our goals for the future. According to the recent report from the World Bank, and International Monetary Fund; (80%) of the “world’s poverty,” rest with Minorities, and the Disenfranchised. This is still “our time,” it is never too late, for us to rise-up as a people, and answer the call or responsibility, and support and encourage these “young leaders,” of tomorrow:

*House of Representatives, or House of Commons???*

*Those that form the House of Representatives are those elected by the people. So, they are charge with the responsibility to speak on-behalf of the people.

Members of the "house of representatives," when they converge on the "capital," presumably to discuss the "people’s business," they flaunt their differences, and flex their muscles, hence the reason, they get "so little done." They repudiate each other with prejudice, and engage in “the blame game, and finger pointing." These members of the House of Representatives, behave and act with a level of Intellectual Unfairness, towards each other. They show no Consciousness of the need to treat all "view-points alike," without reference to one's own feelings or vested interest, community or Constituents; they Implies no Adherence to Intellectual Standards, and without reference to each other efforts and feelings. They argue for self-Gratification, and advantage over the other group or party; completely straying away from the "issue at-hand," which is the Peoples Business, these Politicians argue with Autonomy, over each other, having no Rational control of one's belief, values, and interest. They display Conceit, and Critical Thinking, only to achieve Command over their own "thought processes," with no Commitment to Analyze their Colleague’s Opinion, or even Afford to take it Seriously. This is why I Consistently make the point, that we urgently need a "new breed of politicians," for the People by the People:*

*House of Representatives, or House of Commons???*

*Those that form the House of Representatives are those elected by the people. So, they are charge with the responsibility to speak on-behalf of the people.

Members of the "house of representatives," when they converge on the "capital," presumably to discuss the "people’s business," they flaunt their differences, and flex their muscles, hence the reason, they get "so little done." They repudiate each other with prejudice, and engage in “the blame game, and finger pointing." These members of the House of Representatives, behave and act with a level of Intellectual Unfairness, towards each other. They show no Consciousness of the need to treat all "view-points alike," without reference to one's own feelings or vested interest, community or Constituents; they Implies no Adherence to Intellectual Standards, and without reference to each other efforts and feelings. They argue for self-Gratification, and advantage over the other group or party; completely straying away from the "issue at-hand," which is the Peoples Business, these Politicians argue with Autonomy, over each other, having no Rational control of one's belief, values, and interest. They display Conceit, and Critical Thinking, only to achieve Command over their own "thought processes," with no Commitment to Analyze their Colleague’s Opinion, or even Afford to take it Seriously. This is why I Consistently make the point, that we urgently need a "new breed of politicians," for the People by the People:*

*House of Representatives, or House of Commons???*

*Those that form the House of Representatives are those elected by the people. So, they are charge with the responsibility to speak on-behalf of the people.

Members of the "house of representatives," when they converge on the "capital," presumably to discuss the "people’s business," they flaunt their differences, and flex their muscles, hence the reason, they get "so little done." They repudiate each other with prejudice, and engage in “the blame game, and finger pointing." These members of the House of Representatives, behave and act with a level of Intellectual Unfairness, towards each other. They show no Consciousness of the need to treat all "view-points alike," without reference to one's own feelings or vested interest, community or Constituents; they Implies no Adherence to Intellectual Standards, and without reference to each other efforts and feelings. They argue for self-Gratification, and advantage over the other group or party; completely straying away from the "issue at-hand," which is the Peoples Business, these Politicians argue with Autonomy, over each other, having no Rational control of one's belief, values, and interest. They display Conceit, and Critical Thinking, only to achieve Command over their own "thought processes," with no Commitment to Analyze their Colleague’s Opinion, or even Afford to take it Seriously. This is why I Consistently make the point, that we urgently need a "new breed of politicians," for the People by the People:*

Re: The Economics of Crime

Minorities and the Disenfranchised; we need a "real resolution," Talk is cheap:*
So, '2011 is finally here, a time when so many look forward to new beginnings. In retrospect '2010 made for a horrid time in many African, and Black Minority Communities, particularly as it pertains to the tremendous amount of Youth Violence, that can be attributed to Gang Activity. Since efforts to "stem the tide" have largely failed, are we mis-diagnosing the problem?
I recently read an Interview, done by (Mr. Kendall Moore) about the much-heralded activist, (Dick Gregory), and because of that discussion, I come to realized it's not a matter of "black on black crime," or even "youth violence." The problem is crime: And albeit against each other, simply put, it's just "crime" period. When White People Kill; 95% of the time they kill one-another too. Why don't the System label it "white on white crime, or white youth violence"??? This is not to "minimize" the Abhorrent act of Murder, but rather to make the point that they kill each other too. However, those instance are observed and evaluated differently and without prejudice.
Yes, '2011 is here, but will we finally come closer to the Core of this Societal Problem? Are we going to find an answer to the burning question that plagues our Communities, each and every day, which is : What is the Solution to Youth Violence, and senseless Slaughtering of our Young Black People?
Experts throughout the World, including the USA Attorney General Mr. Eric Holder, are still scrambling to identify an Antidote. The so-called Gang Chiefs, mostly are either "locked-up or dead." The Street Wise, they don't respect Law Enforcement, and base on the History of Profiling and Police Brutality, It's arguably for good reason. Now, even older Generations are Afraid, and have all but "wash their hands" on this situation, without a Plausible or Tangible Resolve. We continue to fool ourselves into thinking, that change is coming, while accepting "bad behavior" from our Youth, and continue to make Excuses for them saying, "times are hard, and some are un-educated." This is a Recipe, and Breathing Ground, for our Youth, to give-up on them-selves. Yes, many System are broken, however, we need to discontinue using this excuse as a Crutch. Moreover, we don't need to look to any one individual or Political Party to solve the problem in a City or Village, as the old folklore saying; we need the whole village to raise the child:This will require the village and a "cross- generational collaboration" to heal our society, where we reside. We need to take our heads out of the sand. We must listen to our Youth, and truly Engage them Tangible Options. We must regain that "trust" of this Generation that Re-present our Future. It's a Daunting Endeavor, when coupled with the problem of Consistently High Un-employment Rates and the Recession. But that as it may, the Opportunity for a Resolution still presents it-self. We have a lot to tackle in '2011, mostly Poignantly Youth Violence. We must truly get to the "root" of this problem by addressing the Mental, Psysiological, and Spiritual Worth of our Youth. Let's Engage them by Listening to them, we already know what is Lacking in their Echelon. Prayers, and talk, and promise will not address this situation. One of my ambition, when I return to Belize, is to once again Simultaneously Engage myself, in Youth Activities.


Lionel E. Smith. Jr
former National Youth President, Belize:

Re: The Economics of Crime

Proverbs mention: that if a country has too much crime; it means that the government is not good.

Research this and comment there

Re: The Economics of Crime

*REFORM, OR KICKING THE CAN DOWN THE ROAD:*.

by Smith Lionel on Tuesday, May 24, 2011 at 2:45pm

* Recidivism: This is a serious Phenomenon facing Belize, this is why I say; I don’t have “all the facts on the ground ,” how much if any Permanent Rehabilitation Programs, or Centers are Instituted, and Operational in Belize, with a “serious message,” for Immediate, and Ubiquitous Reforms that can Resonate within these Communities. The fact that Might “presents itself,” Might well be, that these Court Systems, are Flabbergasted with a Person Repeating an Undesirable Behavior after they have been Incacerated, and Served time in a Prison Facility. The most Common Known Reasons for these Behavioral Repetitious Violent Conduct, Normally are Associated with the Individual not being Properly Rehabilitated, within a Workable Program, that Should Provide Psychological Profile. This is Necessary for the Offender, so the Respective Institutions, can have a “personal profile,” of each Individual, and create a Data Base; then Officers or Case Workers, will have immediate Access to “each, and every offender,” who come-in, and leave the Institution, and this “profile,” will allow you an Intimate History, of how to go about Rehabilitating these Individuals; because one would know how or what Treatment, Counseling, Education, and Employment Development Skills, the Individual Requires, for a Positive, and Productive Integration back into Society. Which is not too Costly, for the Country. Statistics Indicates, that it is (70%) more Costly, to Incacerate a Felon, that to Rehabilitate Him/Her. Repeat Felons, will more or less Lapse into a Violent way of Crimes, because this is “all they know,” or Opportunities are Limited to them, because they don’t have the Necessary Skills, and Tools to become a Productive Member of Society, or their Records, and Past Hinder them, from Obtaing Gainful Employment. They either Experienced Negative Consequences of A Repetitious Behavior, or haven’t been Treated or Trained to Extinguish these Violent Tendencies. ... Committing new offenses after being Punished for a Crime is Chronic; repetition of Criminal Activities or other Anti-social Behavior is evident. Recidivist – is also someone who lapses into Previous Undesirable Patterns of behavior. Recidivism is a measure of the Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Programs or the Deterrent Effects of Punishment. ... Likely-hood of being found guilty of a new Offense or Falling back into the Crevices of a Criminal Past, is Drastically Minimized, with proper Rehabilitation. This Assisted Approach also help the Offenders to Abide by Terms of Probation or Parole.*

Re: The Economics of Crime

*REFORM, OR KICKING THE CAN DOWN THE ROAD:*.

by Smith Lionel on Tuesday, May 24, 2011 at 2:45pm

* Recidivism: This is a serious Phenomenon facing Belize, this is why I say; I don’t have “all the facts on the ground ,” how much if any Permanent Rehabilitation Programs, or Centers are Instituted, and Operational in Belize, with a “serious message,” for Immediate, and Ubiquitous Reforms that can Resonate within these Communities. The fact that Might “presents itself,” Might well be, that these Court Systems, are Flabbergasted with a Person Repeating an Undesirable Behavior after they have been Incacerated, and Served time in a Prison Facility. The most Common Known Reasons for these Behavioral Repetitious Violent Conduct, Normally are Associated with the Individual not being Properly Rehabilitated, within a Workable Program, that Should Provide Psychological Profile. This is Necessary for the Offender, so the Respective Institutions, can have a “personal profile,” of each Individual, and create a Data Base; then Officers or Case Workers, will have immediate Access to “each, and every offender,” who come-in, and leave the Institution, and this “profile,” will allow you an Intimate History, of how to go about Rehabilitating these Individuals; because one would know how or what Treatment, Counseling, Education, and Employment Development Skills, the Individual Requires, for a Positive, and Productive Integration back into Society. Which is not too Costly, for the Country. Statistics Indicates, that it is (70%) more Costly, to Incacerate a Felon, that to Rehabilitate Him/Her. Repeat Felons, will more or less Lapse into a Violent way of Crimes, because this is “all they know,” or Opportunities are Limited to them, because they don’t have the Necessary Skills, and Tools to become a Productive Member of Society, or their Records, and Past Hinder them, from Obtaing Gainful Employment. They either Experienced Negative Consequences of A Repetitious Behavior, or haven’t been Treated or Trained to Extinguish these Violent Tendencies. ... Committing new offenses after being Punished for a Crime is Chronic; repetition of Criminal Activities or other Anti-social Behavior is evident. Recidivist – is also someone who lapses into Previous Undesirable Patterns of behavior. Recidivism is a measure of the Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Programs or the Deterrent Effects of Punishment. ... Likely-hood of being found guilty of a new Offense or Falling back into the Crevices of a Criminal Past, is Drastically Minimized, with proper Rehabilitation. This Assisted Approach also help the Offenders to Abide by Terms of Probation or Parole.*

Re: The Economics of Crime

*A PEOPLE NEGLECTED, IS A NATION LOST:*.

by Smith Lionel on Monday, May 23, 2011 at 1:59pm

* I am not physically on the ground in Belize, so to speak; but I try Diligently to keep abreast of the latest Occurrences in my Original Home-land. But does Belize, has in place a "workable solution," to suppress these Gangs that appears to be rummaging, and terrorizing the streets, and committing these violent crimes? Do they have programs in place such as vocational training centers? Does Central Government introduce a Rehabilitation Program, to Rehabilitate those that are caught, and sentence after serving time? I have learned, that when we "jailed some-one," that Individual become more Harden during Incarceration, because of the Survival Tactics, that they have to adapt, or Coercion from fellow In-mates in these Prisons Environment: when an Individual is released from Prison, and we "turn them loose into society," we are Neglectfully Creating a Worse Situation, than we Previously had. It is more or less, Recycling Violence; this should be the other - way around, we should be Recycling the Individual's Life. If a Raging Bull is Captured, and Contained, then Released, "we must run, not for politics, but for our lives, literally." I Utilized this Analogy, not to Demonized the Individual, but to make the point; that during or after Incaseration, there must be "Education, Rehabilitation, and Transformation." A Vexed Individual, with Access to Illegal Fire-arms, and Illicit Drugs, and a Street-wise Cadre of Friends, Associates, and maybe Families, is by far worse than a Raging Bull. I notice some " arrest cases," where the Police, arrest some-one for a Joint of Marijuana, or a Crack Paraphernalia; these Individual are Sentence in some Instances to Maximum of (5) Years, I would Suggest to Teach them a Lesson; this is Total Nonsense, and an Miscarriage of Justice of the Judicial System on part of these Magistrates, and Judges, whom are Handing - down these Ridiculous Sentences. For these "minor misdemeanors," you don't Incarcerate, you Rehabilitate. I also notice "many cases," which consist of Murder in the First, and Second Degrees, which is often Thrown-out, due to a Miss-carriage of Justice, or Lack of Circumstantial Evidence, where the "case-file, or physical evidence," Vanish in Thin Air, or Witnesses are Intimated, and Refused to Testify: it is high-time, Government of Belize, of what-ever Political Demographics, wake-up and smell the "the dawn of the new day," and Realized, that this is a New Era, and Violent Crimes against its Citizenry should not Scare You, into Throwing - down Your Weapons, and Run, i.e.; proposed hiring of Foreign Police Commissioner, Foreign Chief Justice, Foreign Chief Prosecutor, Director of Public Prosecution; since this appears at a Dead End, with-out a Plausible Workable Resolution, and Alternative, to Combat this Crime Epidemic; why not Hire a Foreign PRIME MINISTER??? This should take Care of Business!!! And take us back to the Colonial Powers, that once Govern us, since we are Un-able to Govern our-selves as an Independent Country, and properly manage this Country’s Affairs and Protect its People. We are not Living in the Middle East, or a European Nation, where Despots or Suicide Bombers are Throwing Grenades on our Streets, and Neighborhoods, this is Belize, SERIOUSLY, can't WE CONTROLL It??? Belizeans, living @ Home, and Abroad, are Sick to their Stomachs, and Extremely Fed-up, with the way in which our Beloved Country, has often been Sold-out, and Utilized as a Pawn, then almost always only the Impoverish, and Dis-enfranchised Suffer the "full brunt," of the Stinking, and Deadly Scourge of Crimes against them; because they are Unable to Afford Gated Communities, Burglar Bars, and License Fire-arms to protect Themselves, in their Own Homes, or on the Streets. Belize, need's Urgent Governmental Reforms, @ the Municipal, and National Level, I will again Re-iterate also the Consorted, and Cohesive Need for Political Transformation, where Nation Building is Concern, to Bridge this Political Divide Pertaining to Partisan Politics, after Elections are Won:*

Smith Lionel ‎*I am "candidly aware," of what is coming NEXT, I will hear of a "need for change," then things will get better in Belize. NOT SO FAST; rember this Crime Phenomenon, started under the "old guard," of the PUP, (10) years ago, it just got WORSE, under the UDP, who don't seems to have a clue "where to turn," except to look Over - Seas.*

Re: The Economics of Crime

*CAPITAL PUNISHMENT:*.

by Smith Lionel on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 1:55pm

Government, Pundits, a Beleaguered Nation, and Traumatized Residents, has finally reach a state of Equilibrium; with the spike of "deadly - violence," in the Central American Nation of Belize. The current Government has proposed, re-instating Capital Punishment; Death by way of Hanging; "the legally authorized killing of someone as punishment for a crime." The "crime - wave phenomenon," that is devastating Belize, has lead to other avenues such as the "hiring of a foreign national," to become the 14th Commissioner of Police. This of-course would replicate the late '1970's or early '1980's, when Belize, was Govern by the United Kingdom, and the Police Department was directed by a Foreign Advisor, and the "small army," Belize Defense Force (BDF) was directed by a British, Brigadier General. Belize, which is the only English Speaking Country, in Central America, bounded by the Caribbean Hemisphere, was formerly known as British Honduras. Belize, still carry the "emblem," of her Majesty, the Queen of England, on its Official Currency. Belize, achieved its Independence from Great Britain, on September 21st '1981. The current Government in Office, has Transcended from the United Democratic Party (UDP). Belize is "twice" the size of its Caribbean neighbor Jamaica, and only boast a Minuscule Population of Approximately three hundred and twenty thousand people (320,000). Belize, has a "small defense force, and police department," all - together, less than three thousand personnel: one would figure more or less, that this number of "security personnel," would be sufficient to maintain, and sustain Law and Order in Belize, since this Nation is divided up into six (06) major districting or boroughs. The current Government is taking "flack" from the previous Administration, the Peoples United Party (PUP) who was in "office," for ten years (10) where the problem begun, and has now spiral dangerously out of control; as this current Government seems to have "no - clue," as how to implement a meaningful, and workable solution to rectify this on-going spike in violence. In my opinion, and these current developments, I only see Belize, reversing course "back-wards, and not for-wards," to-wards an Independent and Promising Future: in New York City, USA, where I currently reside, and pursuing a "degree," we have over eight million people (8,000.000) And a Police Depart of approximately thirty five thousand (35,000) "police officers." Here in New York City, if a Cop say "don't move," you freeze where you are, or a "hail of bullets may follow." I am not suggesting Belize, adapt this principle, if I can call it that; I am simply making the point, that more tougher and effective training has to be given to these Police Officers in Belize. Police Officers must be properly trained in "community policing, preservation, an maintaining of law, and order." If the Crime Situation, is so rampant, and dangerously out of control, then we "must arm," each and every Police Officer, and not allow them to Patrol a Beat, by themselves. The "day or night," of a Police Officer by His/Her self on the "beat," is a thing of the past, sadly; we are not living in that type of Environment any-longer. Government, when they are Elected, or Re-Elected to Office, they award themselves with all these Expensive New Vehicles, how much would it take to "arm" all these Police Officers, so they can Garner Respect on the Streets, and our Soldiers, can go-back to what they are Trained to do, which is Patrolling, and Manning our Border Points, and Suppress these Gangs, and Illicit Drugs, and Illegal Fire - Arms Dealers. I have something that I will say in my "post today," Belizeans, and the US, Embassy in Belize, want to know where these Illegal Weapons, and Illicit Drugs are flowing into Belize from; well, have any Politicians, or Concern Belizeans, heard of a "stretch or our borders," called LA UNION in the ORANGE WALK DISTRICT, with CHETUMAL, QUINTANAROO, MEXICO, and BENQUE VIEJO DE CARMEN, ARENAL, with GUATEMALA??? Ok, this is where "all or most," of these stuff is entering Belize, from. There is only an IMAGINARY BORDER, at these two "illegal border crossings," Now, I am speaking from PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, I have been there, I have seen what cross these PROPOSED, or IMAGINARY BORDER POINTS, because I have spent "sleep-less nights," patrolling, and policing them from "1987 to 19996, Respectively. This was done in both major National Security Departments in Belize. My continued interest in my Beloved Home-land Belize, is to return in the very "near future," and give of myself to "service, “and help make a difference.*

Re: The Economics of Crime

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