IT is very depressing to read news about crimes being perpetrated nowadays. It is very sad to note that the peacefulness and friendliness of the island are now being plagued by “rotten tomatoes” committing these heinous crimes.
Some are blaming it on the hard times, some on drugs, but most of all they are the products of evil criminal minds. To just generally blame it on the poker business is extremely unfair, biased and unjust.
Legitimate poker businesses operate in accordance with the law and pay just wages. They do their best to make sure that the employees, the customers and the people present in their business establishments are safe. They are paying the dues, licenses and taxes which have in some ways benefited the people of the commonwealth.
I know that the government is saddened by the proliferation of crimes committed nowadays, and of course the public’s cooperation in helping solve crimes or even deterring crimes should always be enjoined.
Poker establishments should also be required to install proper security measures, such as surveillance cameras, and post licensed security guards in their facilities and vicinity. The visibility of additional staff (not just a lone poker attendant) should also be considered. These factors can deter the criminals.
Clearance from the Department of Public Safety regarding the security posting and facilities can be an add-on requirement in the poker license issuance. Non-compliance will result in license application disapproval. Who knows, this may also help track down those “fly-by-night” illegal poker operators. This is just an opinion but it may help. BELINDA P. CELEMIN
Garapan, Saipan
