Hamilton street poll of local residents reveals.

The poll revealed widespread frustration with the situation and a host of opinions on what to do about it.

Many respondents said the courts were too lenient on people who commit serious crimes.

One man suggested authorities "take them down to Front Street, tie them to the flag pole, and give them a good whipping''.

Secretary Ms Carmen Hayes wondered aloud why the courts seem to lock up people with traffic violations quicker than the more serious offenders.

"People are just getting off,'' Ms Hayes said. "They should get real sentences.'' Ms Mary Coley, who is also a secretary, said that court sentences have to be stiffer, to make the life of crime "less attractive''.

Several people offered more "humane'' solutions such as rehabilitation, but it appears many Bermuda residents have run low on patience and compassion -- especially for repeat offenders.

A few believed prison programmes let people back on the streets who have no intention of changing their ways.

Despite the differing opinions on punishment, virtually everyone polled agreed on one point: Bermuda must take preventative measures now to avoid another generation who have little or no respect for others.

Computer operator Mr. Troy Berkeley said that community centres were "desperately'' needed.

"Every neighbourhood should have two community centres which are open after school,'' said Mr. Berkeley. "That will keep them (young people) off the street and give them something positive to do.'' Otherwise, he said, they will be drawn to "the wall'' -- and trouble.

As for present offenders, Mr. Berkeley said they won't have any guilt or remorse for their actions "until they hit a place called bottom''.

Mr. Derek Taylor, semi-retired, concurred with Mr. Berkeley's views saying: "There needs to be a place where latchkey kids can go. They need more meaningful and positive guidance.'' Plumber Mr. Jack Caines said that parents should take their role "more seriously'' to prevent their children from falling in with the wrong crowd. He also said a comprehensive rehabilitation programme was more important than stiffer penalties.

Computer programmer Mr. Peter Smith said he would like to see Police spend more time patrolling neighbourhoods to deter burglars, rather than stopping people for minor traffic offences.

A closer relationship between the Police and the community was one suggestion put forward by student Miss Arketa Tucker. She also voiced concern about the scheduled cutbacks in the Police force with crime on the increase.

Secretary Ms Marie Swan said an increase in the number of Police was necessary to curb the escalation in thefts and violent crime.

Ms Carmen Hayes Ms Mary Coley Mr. Troy Berkeley Mr. Derek Taylor Ms Marie Swan Mr. Jack Caines.