In a decisive legislative move, Trinidad and Tobago’s House of Representatives has approved the Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill 2025, marking a significant escalation in the nation’s criminal justice policies. Following an extensive nine-hour parliamentary session, the government secured passage with 23 votes in favor, overcoming unified opposition from ten dissenting MPs.
Spearheaded by Attorney General John Jeremie, the legislation establishes home invasion as a distinct criminal offense carrying severe consequences. Standard convictions now mandate penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment and fines reaching $500,000 TT dollars. The framework incorporates aggravated provisions that elevate punishments to 25 years incarceration and $750,000 fines for perpetrators identified as gang members, organized crime participants, or those committing offenses in the presence of children, seniors, or vulnerable individuals.
A cornerstone of the legislation eliminates the duty to retreat for homeowners, explicitly authorizing residents to use or threaten force against intruders. The statute further recognizes justified deadly force when residents demonstrate honest belief in imminent threat of death, severe bodily harm, or sexual assault.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar celebrated the passage on social media platform X, asserting the legislation prioritizes law-abiding citizens’ rights while delivering an unequivocal message that residential violations will not be tolerated. The Prime Minister expressed disappointment that opposition members voted against what she characterized as critical public safety legislation.
Attorney General Jeremie framed the bill as part of a comprehensive crime reduction strategy, citing alarming statistics showing homicides increased from 420 in 2015 to 624 in 2024, with serious crimes rising from 825 to nearly 1,000 per 100,000 residents. Defense Minister Wayne Sturge emphasized the psychological dimension during debates, stating the legislation aims to instill fear in criminals while empowering homeowners with enhanced self-defense rights.
The bill now proceeds to the Senate for final legislative approval before becoming law.