Sen. Francis Suggests Ways To Stem Violence, Says Anti-Gang, Other Bills Making Progress

ST. CROIX – A St. Croix Senator said Monday steps can be taken immediately to stem the rising tide of violence in the Virgin Islands.

Sen. Novelle E. Francis, Jr., the chairman of the 31st Legislature’s Committee on Homeland Security, Public Safety and Justice, said street lighting, surveillance cameras and routine traffic stops all have proven crime-fighting potential.

“In addition to increasing the ranks of our police officers, taking simple yet necessary steps like installing surveillance cameras in high crime areas and improving visibility in our neighborhoods and commercial areas can have a significant impact on overall crime prevention,” Francis said. “All of these visible and tangible measures help to reassure our community that their safety is a priority and that active policing is taking place.”

Francis said Police Commissioner designee Delroy Richairds Sr. testified before the Committee on Homeland Security, Public Safety and Justice on March 24 and re-assured legislators that the police department is working hard to fight violent crime. But Francis urged police Monday to increase their efforts.

“The tragic loss of Mr. Terrance Moorehead reinforces the urgency of implementing strategies to curb gun violence and crime. Every life lost is one too many,” Francis said.

The 55-year-old Moorehead was shot to death behind an Estate Diamond gas station near Sunny Isle in the early morning hours Saturday.

Francis said he is working with his Senate colleagues to put a high priority on legislation that can help police put a dent in violent crime in the territory, such as anti-gang, no loitering and firearm importation measures which are currently going through the legislative process.