MP Richard Lewis expresses sympathy to family of Chantel Crump and calls for greater protection of minors

As the Member of Parliament for St. John’s Rural West, I am deeply saddened and outraged by the murder of 9-year-old Chantel Crump. This heinous act of violence has shocked our community, and once again plunged us into deep mourning. 

Our community, the Police, the various institutions and stakeholders must all come together in a concerted effort to protect our children and to improve our crime-fighting efforts generally. 

I offer my heartfelt condolences to Everette, Marsha and the rest of the family.  As a father, I can only imagine the profound grief and sorrow they are experiencing. No parent should ever have to endure such a devastating loss.

I call on our community, and the nation at large, to rally together to pray for and uplift Chantel’s parents and the rest of the family in their time of grief.

I wish to thank the social media influencers, the Police, the various groups, community members, the media and others who worked tirelessly to break the case.  We are indeed grateful.

It is imperative that the perpetrators are brought to justice promptly.  Our police force must be given all the necessary resources, tools and support to ensure that justice is expeditiously served.  I also call for an investigation to determine any association with cases of other missing persons, to include young Kemba Marshall of Five Islands.

It is incumbent upon us as a society to look out for the well-being of our children, and to take collective action to prevent violence and ensure their safety. This is not only the responsibility of parents, but also of educators, community leaders, and every member of our society.

In closing, I reiterate my deepest sympathies to Chantel’s family and friends.  Let us come together as a community to support them, and to work towards creating a safer environment for all our children.

Richard S. Lewis MP