Security expert Robert Finzi-Smith - Gleaner file photo
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Security expert Robert Finzi-Smith
By Racquel Porter
Senior crime investigator and security expert Robert Finzi-Smith is raising questions about the government's response to the killing of eight people and wounding of eleven others in Cherry Tree Lane, Clarendon on Sunday.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced a $25 million fund to offer cash rewards for information leading to the capture of those behind the attack.
The government also declared a State of Public Emergency for the entire parish.
But Mr. Finzi-Smith, while hoping that the measures will be successful, suggested that the money could be better spent on developing the community.
"I think the money would be better in improving the infrastructure within the affected area - roads, light, cameras, that type of situation - because it's not easy to hide it in that community, if you become a recipient of some of the rewards. So that I think it is going to make people a little hesitant," he argued.
The Prime Minister on Wednesday said the initiative is part of the strategy to erode gangs and promote information sharing.
Still, Mr. Finzi-Smith has questioned the source of the funds and why the Ministry of National Security had not administered that $25 million towards "preventative measures, rather than trying to illicit cures".
He suggested the initiative might be regarded as a "PR stunt" and could cause some backlash.
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