Senators Condemn Sex Crime Sentences

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Senate President Lashell Adderley and Opposition Senator Michela Barnett-Ellis both condemning what they call, “slap on the wrist sentences” for sexual offenders.

Both women kicking off this morning’s senate session by addressing the controversial topic that has garnered renewed interest after a man was sentenced to four years in prison after impregnating a teenage girl.

The Senate President says the issue does not need to be politicized as she also called on revision and reformation of the law to better protect minors.

Last week, Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Franklyn Williams spoke of “Highly sexualized young people” when asked by a reporter to comment on criticism that the four-year sentence was too lenient.

While many said Williams’ comments amounted to “victim-blaming”, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe disagreed and argued that having sex with a person under the age of consent “is not rape”.

Munroe told reporters that the girl consented to sexual intercourse, even though she was below the age of consent, which is 16-years-old in The Bahamas.

His comments ignited fury in many circles, with some calling for his resignation.

Adderley insists efforts must be made to strengthen the response to incidents like this.

Opposition senator Michela Barnett-Ellis yesterday endorsed Adderley’s contribution, and said The Bahamas has, “deep-rooted patriarchal gender stereotypes”.

She also called for the passing of the Gender Violence Bill and specific amending the Sexual Offences Act when it comes to marital rape.