The Tribune

By JADE RUSSELL

Tribune Staff Reporter

jrussell@tribunemedia.net

CRIME consultant Carlos Reid warned young men against staining their lives by committing murder or attempted murder, saying the lifespan of a gangster is short and even the biggest street boss is not untouchable.

Speaking to The Tribune, Mr Reid said a life of crime could ultimately lead to imprisonment or death. He said those who decide to leave that lifestyle behind cannot continue associating with the same people, places or destructive habits.

“Look around you, like even persons who were considered to be untouchable, people like head shooting them now,” Mr Reid said.

“The lifespan of a gangster, it ain't long. You know even if you go to jail and they protect you for a little bit, we've seen it where so many people came out of jail and then end up like …. end up getting killed.”

Mr Reid stressed that “chief gangsters” have not been excluded from retaliation, adding that no one involved in a life of crime is safe.

The country has long struggled with gang violence, with rival gangs often involved in retaliatory attacks that have resulted in bloodshed and the deaths of innocent bystanders.

Asked about the possibility of criminals leaving gangs or abandoning a life of crime, Mr Reid said some former offenders have successfully made that choice.

He said many people have left the criminal lifestyle and become law-abiding citizens. However, he said the process has been easier for some than others, with some former offenders continuing to face the consequences of their crimes.

Mr Reid said grieving families may not accept that a killer has decided to leave the gang lifestyle, adding that some relatives may seek revenge themselves.

“There are some persons like what got charged with murder, attempted murder, or something in that case,” Mr Reid said. “They gotta deal with not so much like the gang members, but family members, because when you done kill my brother, what you could tell me?”

Mr Reid emphasised that being associated with a particular crime can make a person a target for retaliation.

“If I did somethings to some people,” Mr Reid said. “Then people going to hold (a) personal vendetta against me.”

The Bahamas continues to grapple with gun violence and homicides.

Police and government officials have repeatedly warned the public to be cautious about who they associate with, particularly people on bail for murder or attempted murder charges.

Mr Reid reiterated that being connected to people involved in street activity can be deadly. He said a person does not necessarily have to be involved in a crime to become a target, as attackers may target their loved ones if they cannot reach them directly.

Recalling his own dangerous past, Mr Reid said he knew he could not survive in the streets forever. He urged others to change their lives before it is too late, adding that they should get out while they can.