By Admin
Copyright dominicanewsonline
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sherma Dalrymple has issued a strong warning regarding the use and proliferation of realistic imitation firearms in Dominica, citing legal consequences and societal risks associated with their presence.
Speaking on the Ministry of National Security’s programme aired on DBS Radio, Dalrymple pointed out that Section 39 of Dominica’s Firearms Act prohibits the manufacture, modification, sale, and importation of realistic imitation firearms. These are objects that resemble actual firearms so closely that only an expert could distinguish them from real weapons.
“There is a prohibition under Section 39 of the Firearms Act in respect of realistic imitation firearms,” Dalrymple stated. “Anyone who contravenes this provision is guilty of an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of $3,000 or to imprisonment for one year, or to both.”
She further explained that the court has discretion to impose both a fine and a custodial sentence, depending on the circumstances of the offence.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Alleyne Maximae echoed the DPP’s concerns, citing several incidents in which imitation firearms were used to commit serious crimes. Among them was an attempted robbery at MAM’s Supermarket in Massacre on September 20, 2023, and robberies at the Lindo Park and NP gas stations in the same year. He also referenced a 2013 robbery in Newtown involving an imitation firearm.
“These were not real firearms,” Maximae said. “Persons out there may think that it’s just a toy, but they can be used in the commission of offences. They’re not just toys.”
In light of these incidents, Dalrymple suggested that the importation of toy guns may need to be reconsidered. She noted that some local stores may be importing such items, which could contribute to a culture that normalizes firearms among youth.
“Left to me, I would just ban the importation of toy guns,” Dalrymple said. “It is based on what I see every day in court. Are we going to nurture our young minds to accept that a gun is just a toy?”
She indicated that a formal submission on the matter may be made to the Attorney General, highlighting the broader implications for public safety and youth development.
