The Federal Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) PACE Justice Project and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), conducted a four-day training programme on the Diversionary Caution System from July 13th to 16th, 2026 at the Royal St. Kitts Hotel.
The training brought together justice sector stakeholders to support implementation of the reform, which was designed to strengthen accountability, promote proportionality in criminal justice responses, and provide earlier intervention for suitable cases. Approximately, 60 police officers participated in the first phase, while the second phase engaged representatives from the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, legal professionals, court administration, His Majesty’s Prison, social services, and rehabilitation providers.
The Diversionary Caution System provides a lawful alternative to prosecution for eligible low-level offences through measures such as restitution, counselling, rehabilitation, restorative action, and social support. Serious offences, repeat offending, and matters requiring court intervention remained subject to prosecution.
Attorney General Garth Wilkin stated that the reform ensured the justice system applied the right response to the right case while maintaining safeguards, victim considerations, and accountability.
Supported by UNDP PACE Justice Project and UNODC, the initiative represented a significant step in modernizing justice administration and promoting fair, restorative, and effective outcomes.
