Robert King On Westgate, Conditions & More
“Recent media reporting on conditions and security operations at Westgate Correctional Facility is concerning and deserves careful scrutiny,” Shadow Minister of National Security Robert King said.
Mr. King said, “While some of the information in circulation is attributed to unidentified sources, reports of breaches to maximum-security cells, the presence of contraband, and risks to officer safety raise serious questions that cannot be dismissed.
“Public safety, and the safety of corrections officers, depends on correctional facilities being well managed, with standards that reflect the risks they are designed to contain. If security procedures are breaking down, officers feel unsupported, or accountability is unclear, those issues must be examined promptly and transparently.
“One issue that cannot be ignored is the long-standing staffing shortage within the Department of Corrections. Chronic shortfalls have placed sustained pressure on officers’ ability to maintain safety and security, with many reportedly working in excess of 100 hours of overtime per month. That level of fatigue is not sustainable and carries real physical and mental consequences — not just for officers, but for the overall safety of the facility.
“At the same time, the lack of modern security infrastructure must be addressed. Measures such as cell-phone jamming technology, enhanced perimeter controls, and protection against drone-assisted contraband are no longer optional in a modern correctional environment.
“The Department of Corrections has stated that steps have been taken to secure affected areas, remove contraband, and refer matters to the Bermuda Police Service. That is appropriate. However, Bermudians also deserve confidence that systemic issues — including staffing, leadership capacity, and infrastructure — are being addressed, not treated as isolated incidents.
“When local capacity is stretched, the Government must be prepared to look externally for support — including getting assistance from the UK. The PLP has already done this with the hiring of police officers — they must do the same for the prison service. These are critical national-security issues that require proper resourcing and leadership.
“As Shadow Minister of National Security, I am calling for effective oversight, protection for officers who raise legitimate concerns, and accountability at all levels where standards have not been met. Lives should not be placed in jeopardy because known risks have gone unaddressed.
“National security depends on leadership that is willing to confront problems early and act. I will continue to follow this matter closely and press for answers that maintain public confidence.”
