Dear Editor,

Jamaicans, both locally and in the Diaspora, are still rocked by the evil act committed by cowards against eight-year-old Danielle Rowe.

The slaying of this child shows yet again the decay in morals and values within our society as the hearts of our fellow Jamaicans have become desperately wicked, sparing none. It has been proved once again — which is the daily reality — that there is absolutely no respect for life. Children’s, young people’s, and elderly people’s lives are snatched away like that of a mosquito’s.

However, as we try to come to terms with this callous behaviour, many people from within the various echelons of society — from the political directorate to the Church, civil society groups, public and private sectors, and even the helpless man on the street — are crying condemnation.

As I penned these few words, my heart is full and I must say that I am tired of the condemnations. As a matter of fact, those who are crying condemnation in the political circle have the will to implement and pass legislation to ensure that these ruthless criminals, when brought before the courts, are dealth with properly. Therefore, I call on the political directorate on both sides of Parliament to be bold in amending and passing legislation that will help to arrest this monster called crime.

Similar to your boldness in implementing and accepting the high percentage salary increases, I dare you to be bold enough to implement the relevant policies and legislative framework to get these evil-hearted men off the streets.

Instead of condemnation, provide the resources needed to the security forces to tackle crime and violence so that we can not only sleep with our windows open but our children can also commute to school safely. Condemning these acts means little if these incidents are treated as only a nine-day wonder. The truth is we don’t even have the time to grieve properly. Daily, lives are slaughtered.

Instead of visiting the families of these victims and hugging, kissing, and speaking to the media through statements comprising what you think we want to hear and pronouncing condemnation — which is often lip service — it is about time we “get wicked” on the criminals.

Although I can appreciate, to some extent, that the entire nation is crying condemnation, it is simply not enough. Many of us know those who are committing these crimes; they are the boyfriends, sons, uncles, and fathers. We can’t continue to ignore the fact that a lot of women are enablers of criminality but join the choir in singing condemnation.

We are tired of condemnation. It is time for action. Give them up!

Clayon Warner

claywarn@gmail.com