Another “smash and grab” job at a jewellery store on Front Street has again raised concern about security in the downtown shopping area. Luckily, one alleged robber was held and at least some of the stolen merchandise recovered.
There were thankfully no cruise ships in port, while the suspects seemed to have first considered two other shops but twice changed their mind, presumably because there had been customers inside. Before anybody starts thanking them for being considerate, keep in mind that fear of having to control too many persons was the more likely reason.
In addition, people still could easily have gotten seriously hurt or even worse, both when the incident took place and during the police chase that followed. After all, warning shots were fired and there’s always the risk of stray bullets hitting an innocent bystander.
Hopefully, the arrest of one of the three suspects will soon lead authorities to the remaining two, so these hazards to the community and the island’s tourism economy on which it greatly depends can quickly be taken off the street and put behind bars. They are probably fairly young as usual, but that should not play a major role in their punishment.
If you’re old enough to do the crime, you’re old enough to do the time.
