WILLEMSTAD - The Crime Prevention Fund (CF) has a balance of 60.5 million guilders as of June 27, according to the "2024 Crime Prevention Fund Policy Plan" submitted to Parliament by Minister of Justice Shalten Hato (MFK). The fund, which supports a variety of crime-fighting initiatives, is using these resources to tackle key security issues in the coming year.
Of the total balance, 29.2 million guilders has been earmarked for 18 priority projects in 2024. Significant investments will be made in bolstering the Curaçao Police Force, the fire department, the Sentro di Detenshon i Korekshon Korsou, and expanding the Camera Surveillance project, which enhances public safety through increased monitoring.
In addition to these security upgrades, the CF will focus on crime prevention and rehabilitation. Youth crime and the reintegration of ex-prisoners into society are key areas of attention. The fund will finance initiatives that help former inmates secure employment or start businesses, aiming to prevent recidivism and promote a safer community.
However, the policy plan also reveals that the CF lacks a stable revenue stream. Its income sources are outlined in the National Ordinance on the Crime Prevention Fund, which includes fines and the sale of confiscated goods. Despite these sources, the fund's financial stability remains a concern.
With these projects, the CF aims to address both the immediate and long-term challenges of crime on the island, contributing to a safer and more secure Curaçao.