ST.KITTS-NEVIS AVG 30 MURDERS ANNUALLY BETWEEN 2023- 2024: St. Kitts and Nevis Records Crime Fighting Gains, but Violent Crime Averages 30 Murders Annually in 2023-2024 Compared to Average 11 between 2018 and 2022
St. Kitts and Nevis Records Crime Fighting Gains, but Violent Crime Soars with Average 30 Murders Annually in 2023-2024 Compared to Average 11 Annualy Under Previous Administration between 2018 and 2022

Despite notable progress in crime reduction efforts, violent crime remains a significant challenge in St. Kitts and Nevis. During the January 22, 2025, edition of InFocus, Commissioner of Police James Sutton, supported by Deputy Commissioner Cromwell Henry and Assistant Commissioner Travis Rogers, shared crime statistics for 2024, revealing mixed outcomes in the fight against crime.
According to the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF), the federation recorded 28 murders in 2024, a slight decline from 31 in 2023 but still alarmingly high. This figure is more than double the average annual murder count of approximately 11 recorded during the last four years of the Dr. Hon. Timothy Harris-led Team Unity Administration (2018-2022). Under the current administration of Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, the annual murder average has risen to 30 in the first two years of governance.
While violent crime remains elevated, Deputy Commissioner Henry reported an overall 11 percent decrease in reported crimes in 2024 compared to 2023. Major crime categories showed notable reductions: firearm-related offences dropped by 39 percent, malicious damage decreased by 30 percent, and bodily harm incidents fell by 11 percent. Larcenies and drug possession cases were also down by 12 percent and 5 percent, respectively. However, robberies increased by 8 percent, and sexual offences saw a 6 percent uptick.
One key achievement highlighted during the program was the resolution of 16 out of 28 homicides in 2024, representing a 57 percent resolution rate. Commissioner Sutton credited this to the dedication of the police force and the critical support from the government, local communities, and regional and international law enforcement partners.
“Detection helps prevention,” said Deputy Commissioner Henry. “If a person knows they have a high chance of being caught, they are less likely to commit a crime. Detection is a good form of prevention, so we deliberately set out to detect these crimes to prevent further crimes.”
Commissioner Sutton expressed gratitude to the government for providing the tools, resources, and training that empower the police to tackle crime effectively. He also emphasized the need for a firm but professional approach to law enforcement, stating, “In order to be safe, we have to be firm, but professional. We cannot abuse people. We have to show people the respect they deserve when enforcing the laws.”
As the federation looks toward 2025, plans include an increased police presence and the deployment of additional technology to enhance citizen security. Commissioner Sutton assured the public that efforts would intensify, with the goal of building safer communities and sustaining the positive momentum achieved thus far.
While the reductions in certain crime categories are commendable, the persistently high murder rate underscores the urgent need for more comprehensive crime prevention strategies.

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