NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Minister of National Security Marvin Dames said yesterday the Rehabilitation of Offenders Committee has seen a recent uptick in requests for expungement of records.

Speaking to reporters outside Cabinet, Dames once again urged individuals with criminal records to apply for the initiative and take advantage of a “second chance”.

He noted that in the new year, the committee plans to launch an aggressive public education strategy so that Bahamians can be more informed about the opportunity.

“We ask everyone to apply, as much as possible,” he said.

Dames insisted that individuals with crimes “across the board” can apply for the initiative, and “everyone is entitled to an audience”.

According to the Rehabilitation of Offenders (Amendment) Act, 2015, the Rehabilitation of Offenders Committee will hear applications to all offenses excluding murder, manslaughter, armed robbery, rape, kidnapping and treason.

The committee’s focus has been on young people and first-time offenders.

Dames yesterday noted that the process can take up to a few weeks for recommendation, consideration and approval.

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