Bermuda Democratic Alliance today unveiled its platform on crime — including the creation of anti-gang legislation, greater use of technology including CCTV, and tougher drunk driving laws.

The Alliance says it would deter gang involvement by increasing social programmes such as expanding youth centres, and educating and maintaining open dialogue with young people.

And as the tension over policing responsibilities between Government and the Governor continues, BDA pledged another of its strategies would be to “foster a working relationship with Government House to ensure efficient policing”.

The fledgling party called a press conference at noon today at Jubilee Park in North Street, a back-of-town area at the heart of the gang-related troubles which have plagued the Island.

MP Mark Pettingill said the Alliance’s platform on crime would also:

l modernise the Criminal Code Act of 1909 to provide a clear working piece of legislation covering all laws related to crime;

l provide for electronic monitoring of high-risk offenders and videotape Police interviews;

l introduce legislation to set up community crime watches;

l improve communication between Police and the prosecution service;

l review alternatives to traditional incarceration to expand opportunities for rehabilitation and re-education;

l strengthen mental health services.

For the full story, see tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.