A recent stabbing spree by a man recently released from prison has sparked urgent calls for reform in Barbados’ mental health and criminal justice systems. Researcher and behavioural specialist Professor Dwayne Devonish, speaking to a local media house, has pointed to critical systemic weaknesses, emphasizing the dire need for improved coordination among state agencies to prevent repeat violence, particularly when mental health issues intersect with a history of criminal violence.
Professor Devonish stressed that Barbados must bolster collaboration between its prison system, mental health institutions, law enforcement, and social services to effectively manage individuals who pose a danger to themselves and others. He warned that without immediate reforms, these tragic incidents will continue to occur, calling for the issue to be addressed as a matter of national security and public health.
“We cannot afford to let these situations keep repeating, and I think there must be urgent reform in how we handle mental health and violent offenders,” Devonish stated. “This must be treated as a matter of national security and public health.”
A key concern raised by Devonish is the security protocols in place at mental health facilities. He questioned whether these institutions have adequate safeguards to prevent escapes and whether comprehensive risk assessments are conducted before individuals are reintegrated into society.
“Are there proper risk assessments done before releasing individuals back into society?” he asked. “Another thing that I would like to talk about is mental health facilities ensuring that they have robust enough security measures to prevent the likelihood of escape of these said offenders.”
Devonish also highlighted the severe lack of resources for reintegration programs in Barbados, noting that many former inmates struggle to adjust to life outside prison. This challenge is even greater for those dealing with mental health issues, making their transition significantly more difficult.
“The reintegration programmes in Barbados are grossly under-resourced, and we found that people who’ve come back into society from incarceration find it difficult to adjust. Now imagine how that challenge is intensified with someone with mental health challenges or mental health issues,” he added.
The recent violent attack has intensified public discourse on the urgent need for systemic reforms. Experts and advocacy groups are urging the government to prioritize mental health care improvements, better risk assessment protocols, and stronger rehabilitation and reintegration programs to reduce the likelihood of future incidents.
The incident has reinforced the call for a comprehensive approach to managing individuals with complex mental health and behavioral concerns, ensuring public safety while providing necessary support for rehabilitation. As discussions continue, all eyes will be on policymakers to see what concrete steps are taken to address these pressing concerns.