By Hon. Dwayne Taylor, All-Island Candidate for the PDM
Turks and Caicos, February 1, 2025 – Crime and violence have taken a devastating toll on the Turks and Caicos Islands, leaving a shadow over our communities and an overwhelming sense of fear among our people. In 2024, we saw an unprecedented 48 murders—a grim statistic that highlights just how dire the situation has become.
Every lost life is a tragedy, and every act of violence erodes the fabric of our society. Yet, under the PNP government, crime and violence is out of control with no effective solutions in sight.
This election is not just about choosing a government; it’s about reclaiming our streets, securing our communities, and ensuring a future where every citizen can live without fear. The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) has a clear and comprehensive plan to tackle crime and violence head-on—a plan rooted in leadership, accountability, and actionable solutions.
A Crisis Ignored by the PNP The PNP government has failed to protect the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Their track record on crime is one of broken promises and ineffective strategies. Despite having access to millions of dollars in resources, the PNP has been unable to implement policies that meaningfully address the root causes of crime or provide the support needed to fight escalating gang violence. Instead of focusing on the real issues plaguing our communities, the PNP has opted for superficial measures and grandstanding.
Their inability to invest in meaningful policing, community engagement, and preventative initiatives has left us vulnerable. This lack of leadership has emboldened criminal elements, and the results are evident in the horrifying escalation of murders, robberies, and violent crimes across our islands. The PDM’s Vision for Safer Communities.
The PDM recognizes that crime and violence are not just criminal justice issues—they are societal issues that require a multifaceted approach. Our policy on crime and violence focuses on prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation.
We believe in addressing the root causes of crime while simultaneously ensuring that those who break the law face swift and fair justice. 
- Strengthening Law Enforcement The PDM will invest in advanced training, modern equipment, and cutting-edge technology for our police force. By enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement, we can better combat organized crime and dismantle gang networks.
- Community Policing Initiatives Trust between law enforcement and communities is essential for effective crime prevention. The PDM will implement community policing programs to foster collaboration, rebuild trust, and create safer neighbourhoods.
- Securing Our Borders The influx of illegal firearms, drugs, and human traffickers fuels much of the violence in 1 our communities. The PDM will strengthen border security through advanced surveillance systems and partnerships with regional and international agencies to intercept illegal activities before they reach our shores.
- Youth Empowerment Programs Preventing crime starts with providing our young people with alternatives. The PDM will invest in education, vocational training, and mentorship programs to steer at-risk youth away from gangs and criminal activities.
- Justice Reform and Rehabilitation The PDM will introduce reforms to ensure that justice is swift and fair. We will also focus on rehabilitation programs within the prison system, offering skills training and reintegration support to reduce recidivism and give offenders a second chance to contribute to society.
- Support for Victims Too often, victims of crime are forgotten. The PDM will prioritize victim support services, including counseling, legal assistance, and advocacy, to help survivors rebuild their lives.
Real Leadership, Real Solutions
What we are offering is not rhetoric—it’s a roadmap to safer communities.
The PDM is committed to addressing crime and violence with the seriousness it demands. We will not shy away from making the hard decisions or taking the bold actions needed to restore safety and security to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The PNP’s failure to act has brought us to this point, and their lack of vision leaves no hope for a better tomorrow. They have ignored the cries of a frightened nation, allowing criminal elements to thrive while our people live in fear.
The time for complacency is over.
The February 7th general elections are a turning point for our nation. We cannot afford another five years of inaction, excuses, and broken promises. The choice is clear: vote for a party with a proven track record of leadership, a comprehensive plan for tackling crime, and a genuine commitment to the safety and well-being of every Turk and Caicos Islander.
This is not just about today—it’s about the future we want for our children and grandchildren. It’s about creating a Turks and Caicos Islands where every citizen can walk freely in their community, where businesses can thrive, and where families can sleep soundly at night. Vote for the PDM.
Shade the circle by the bell—10 votes, 10 bells. Together, we will take back our streets, rebuild our communities, and create a safer, stronger Turks and Caicos Islands.