FSM leaders meet with law enforcement officials

by Nick Delgado

Guam – Issues surrounding the recent incidents involving the Federated States of Micronesia citizens and law enforcement was discussed today between leaders of the island communities of Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei and Yap today. The group met with the Attorney General Leonardo Rapadas, GPD chief of police Fred Bordallo, DYA director Adonis Mendiola and others. Rapadas states, "Too often, law enforcement agencies like the Office of the Attorney General, GPD, Department of Corrections and DYA are part of the criminal justice system that does not come into the picture until a crime has been committed like the triple homicide that occurred a couple of weeks ago."

Officials identified the problem being a lack of education, prejudices and stereotypes, lack of after-school care, and communication barriers, as well as a breakdown in the family structure and alcohol abuse. Rapadas responds to FSM Consul General Gerson Jackson's question on prevention stating, "As a community, as brothers and sisters of the Micronesian region, these issues affect all of us and we must work together to find solutions. FSM leaders, Guam leaders and representatives and all other stakeholders in the larger Guam community must take the lead to promote educational and prevention activities."

The meeting is a first among many that the island leaders will conduct to promote a united community.