Cabinet Approves New Modular Prison as Government Intensifies Response to Crime

Cabinet has approved the construction of a new modular prison at the Prison Farm in the Potworks Dam area as part of the Government’s wider response to crime, violence and longstanding deficiencies within the country’s correctional system.

The first phase of the development will accommodate approximately 150 inmates, with additional units to be constructed as they become necessary.

The decision was taken as Cabinet continued discussions on the increase in crime and violence, particularly gun-related offences, and the need for a decisive and coordinated response from law-enforcement and justice institutions.

Cabinet said the country must launch a frontal attack on crime, with law-enforcement agencies aggressively using the resources available to identify, apprehend and prosecute people involved in criminal activity.

The new prison will eventually facilitate the closure of the ageing facility in St. John’s, commonly known as 1735 Prison.

The existing prison dates back to the 19th century and occupies buildings originally constructed as military barracks. It has also faced longstanding overcrowding and capacity problems.

The Government said a modular approach would allow the project to proceed in manageable phases instead of waiting for the completion of one large facility.

The initial 150-inmate unit will establish the foundation for Antigua and Barbuda’s transition towards a more modern correctional system with adequate capacity and improved facilities.

Cabinet stressed that the development represents only one component of the national response to crime. The Government also intends to strengthen law enforcement’s ability to confront serious and repeat offenders.

At the same time, Cabinet said prison modernisation must be accompanied by appropriate rehabilitation and skills-development programmes.

Those programmes would be designed to reduce repeat offending and equip inmates to reintegrate productively into society following their release.

Planning and implementation arrangements for the new facility will now proceed, with Cabinet expected to monitor the project as part of its broader programme to strengthen public safety, national security and the justice system.