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2 clusters · 3 sources · 23 days · First seen · Last updated

Trinidad and Tobago prison system challenges

Overview

The Trinidad and Tobago prison system is facing significant operational and security challenges. Initially, the Prison Officers’ Association (POA) raised concerns regarding a proposal by Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander to utilize inmates sentenced to hard labour for public-space maintenance. While acknowledging the rehabilitative potential of such work, the POA emphasized that implementation requires addressing overcrowding, staffing shortages, and rigorous security protocols.

Subsequent reports highlighted a thriving multi-million-dollar contraband economy within the correctional facilities. Following the arrest of an off-duty officer allegedly attempting to smuggle various goods into a women’s prison, officials identified several drivers of this illicit trade. These include severe overcrowding, inmate addictions, and corruption among officers who facilitate smuggling due to financial pressures or safety concerns. Acting Prisons Commissioner Elvin Scanterbury has pledged to address rogue officers directly.

Entities

Prison Officers’ Association · Roger Alexander · Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service · National Programme for the Upkeep of Public Spaces (NPUPS) · Lester Logie

Timeline

  1. 19 days ago

    [CRIME] 3 sources
    Trinidad and Tobago prison system faces multi-million-dollar contraband economy

    Trinidad and Tobago's Prison Officers’ Association reports a multi-million-dollar contraband economy is thriving due to overcrowding, inmate addictions, and officer corruption.

  2. about 1 month ago

    [POLITICS] 3 sources
    Trinidad & Tobago Prison Officers’ Association cautions on inmate labour plan

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Prison Officers’ Association warned that Minister Roger Alexander’s plan to deploy inmates for public‑space maintenance must first address security, staffing, equipment and overcrowding.

Sources

azpnews.com · trinidadexpress.com · ttt.live