THE EDITOR, Sir:
I FOUND it shocking and unbelievable that prison inmates could have cell phones. Perhaps I am too ignorant of the realities of life in the Jamaican society; but how could the authorities that be, allow cell phones to enter the prisons, much more being in the possession of prisoners?
If cell phones can reach the prisoners then any other contraband can enter the prisons. Rather than prevent cell phones from entering the prisons the government has spent over $8 million to install signal-blockers in the prisons? The $8 million would have been better spent refurbishing the many dilapidated court houses in the country or assist directly in the fight against crime.
I find it hard to believe that the prison authorities cannot just simply prevent cell phones from entering the jails. Just as how weapons are not allowed in the prisons, cell phones should not be allowed either.
During the course of my work I visit various jails, prisons and detention centres. At no time would I ever be allowed to enter any of these facilities with my cell phone. Furthermore, I have to pass through a metal detector. By simply outlawing cell phones and enforcing the rules the government should be able to keep cell phones out of jails.
Those who fail to enforce these and any other prison rules should be penalised to the full extent of the law. Wasting tax-payers money and inconveniencing those who live in close proximity to the jails is not the answer.
I am etc.,
JUNIOR FARQUHARSON
jflawoffice@aol
Lauderhill, Florida
Via Go-Jamaica
