Criminologist- Lawanda Lavia (M.S.C) Propose Comprehensive Measures to Protect Antigua and Barbuda’s Childcare and Protection Act 2015.
The tragic loss of nine-year-old Chantel Crump has left Antigua and Barbuda grieving and searching for solutions. Social Policy Criminologist Lawanda Lavia (M.S.C) has proposed an extensive policy recommendation aimed at addressing systemic vulnerabilities in child safety and protection. Presented to His Excellency the Governor-General, Sir Rodney Williams; the Honorable Prime Minister, Gaston Browne; the Honorable Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Steadroy “Cutie” Olivero Benjamin; and the Honorable Minister of Education, Daryll Matthew, this proposal lays out practical and actionable measures to safeguard the nation’s children and prevent future tragedies.
At the heart of Ms. Lavia’s recommendations is the implementation of an AMBER Alert system. This tool will enable a rapid and coordinated response, using SMS alerts, social media, television, and radio to notify the public immediately when a child is reported missing.
The system is designed to save lives by mobilizing communities and law enforcement during the critical hours following an abduction. Ms. Lavia further emphasizes the importance of Antigua and Barbuda joining the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction.
This international treaty would streamline the recovery of abducted children across borders, establish legal cooperation frameworks, and solidify the nation’s commitment to protecting its youngest citizens. She also encourages the government to send qualified professionals to attend global conferences regularly, to ensure they remain at the forefront of child protection strategies.
To protect children at the community level, Ms. Lavia appeals to the Honorable Daryll Matthew to lead the integration of child safety education into the national curriculum. Schools can serve as vital spaces for teaching students how to recognize threats, identify trustworthy adults, and seek help when needed.
Beyond education, Ms. Lavia advocates for harsher penalties for abductors and enhanced interrogation techniques tailored to extract critical information from offenders, ensuring justice is served effectively. She also recommends equipping children with personal safety tools, such as GPS-enabled watches, wearable alarms, and emergency SOS apps. These devices can act as lifelines, empowering children while offering reassurance to parents and guardians.
Ms. Lavia has also called upon the Honorable Minister of Social Transformation, Rawdon Turner, to spearhead initiatives that support societal recovery.
Through outreach programs and workshops, the ministry can collaborate with local leaders in all parishes to educate communities on abduction prevention. Minister Turner’s leadership in offering accessible mental health counseling and promoting coping mechanisms for affected families can strengthen the nation’s resilience. Such measures, alongside community engagement, will create a network of vigilance and support that prioritizes child safety.
In her heartfelt conclusion, Ms. Lavia expresses her sincerest condolences to Chantel Crump’s family and loved ones, including her grieving parents and siblings. “To Chantel’s family, know that you are not alone in this sorrow. Your daughter’s light continues to shine in the hearts of a nation that mourns alongside you. We stand with you, and we vow to honor her memory by taking action to protect the children of Antigua and Barbuda.” She also commends the tireless efforts of activists, including Shenelle Williams (Bonita), J. Truth, Thaliah Baptist, and Mary John, whose dedication continues to inspire change. Addressing the country’s leaders and community members, Ms. Lavia concludes, “We will never give up on Chantel, her family, or any child in Antigua and Barbuda. together, we can build a future where every child is safe and cherished.”
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Is the chantal crump profile on Facebook the same one ? Was she contacted by Angela that way ?