Prime Minister Gaston Browne says a circulating voice recording purportedly involving people in jail has strengthened his resolve to seek tougher sentences for gun crimes.

Browne described the recording as “chilling” and “horrifying” on Pointe FM’s Browne and Browne Show on Saturday. He said the speakers appeared to be waiting to complete short prison terms before returning to criminal activity.

The prime minister cited the recording while arguing that some offenders are released too quickly. He said the government intends to bring legislation to Parliament establishing minimum sentences for gun crimes, criticizing what he considers lenient sentencing by the courts.

Browne also pointed to videos of young people displaying guns on social media as evidence of the challenge facing police and communities. He said repeat offenders should remain in prison long enough to participate in rehabilitation and skills training before they return to society.

He called on parents, churches, businesses and community groups to help steer young people away from violence, saying the response must extend beyond longer prison terms.

Browne did not identify the speakers in the voice recording during the broadcast or provide evidence establishing when or where it was made. The recording’s origin and the speakers’ identities have not been independently verified.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: VOICE NOTE: PM Browne Calls Prison Voice Recording ‘Chilling’ as He Pushes Tougher Sentences.