Former Police Commissioner Rawlston Pompey has voiced strong opposition to public demands for stricter traffic fines, emphasizing that sustainable road safety improvements hinge on education, training, and disciplined enforcement rather than merely escalating penalties. In a pointed commentary, Pompey challenged recent suggestions by a senior traffic officer, labeling them as emotionally driven rather than grounded in logic. He underscored that the core issue is not about imposing harsher penalties but about enhancing operational knowledge and ensuring a clear chain of command within the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda. Pompey outlined the hierarchical structure of the force, stressing that junior officers should not spearhead major policy decisions. Instead, he advocated for recognizing and nurturing the potential of lower-ranking officers through formal training and career advancement. Pompey highlighted the importance of public education, safe driving programs, and community outreach as foundational elements of road safety. He also addressed the unique challenges of nighttime driving, noting the difficulty in judging oncoming vehicles and the distinct visibility of emergency vehicles. Pompey criticized the notion of harsher penalties as counterproductive, advocating for balanced enforcement where minor infractions are met with warnings and serious offenses are prosecuted rigorously. He called for rigid enforcement, license suspensions when necessary, and more effective magistracy to deter reckless driving. Concluding with a stark message, Pompey urged motorists to drive responsibly and carefully, encapsulating his plea in bold, emphatic terms.
Former Police Commissioner Pompey Says Traffic Reform Needs Education, Not “Stiffer Penalties”
