I turned on my television Sunday evening and Beyond Scared Straight was on. This programme involves parents enrolling their children who are in gangs, violence, drugs and any other activity that may result in a negative unproductive life, with the expectation that these children would return to the straight and righteous path.Children had the experience of a "jail tour" in jump suit and cuffs. They met inmates who were tough, mean and rough. There was no physical interaction but it was up-close and personal, in-your-face.
Those children heard a different language in there. They were left in cells so they were able to observe the toilet facilities in the cell and the bathroom area where "anything" can happen. They also had a "taste" of the food.Well, those children went in tough but came out new people. They cried like babies. They changed their lives around and the officers followed up on their progress.Shock therapy! It was impressive.
Such a drastic programme would deal with gang activity in schools. As fighting crime should be done on all fronts this will allow the problem to be tackled at an early stage in the lives of these children. Hopefully they will become more productive young people which should follow through to adulthood.These young ones do not fully understand the consequence of their illegal activities. They think jail is just being behind bars; just sitting there and receiving free meals.
Given that the criminals and gang members in T&T are now extremely young, shouldn't a programme like this be introduced? The United States found it necessary to implement this drastic measure. Sure looks like we may need it also.Food for thought.
Pixie