“Unveiling the Cozumel Armor: José Luis Chacón’s Bold Security Plan”

In 2023, the island of Cozumel experienced a surge in crime, with the homicide rate reaching a peak of 2.79 cases per 100,000 residents in March. This alarming situation has been attributed to years of neglect of social infrastructure and crime prevention measures by successive local governments.

During a security forum attended by experts, business leaders, and residents, José Luis Chacón Méndez, a local politician, launched his campaign for the municipal presidency of Cozumel. Running under the slogan 'Let's Continue Making History', Chacón Méndez, who identifies as a candidate of the people, pledged to restore peace and security to the island's families.

Chacón Méndez highlighted the need to address the root causes of insecurity, which he believes previous governments have failed to do. He criticized their lack of support for education, youth, and sports, and their neglect of the need to rebuild a healthy and productive social fabric.

The centerpiece of Chacón Méndez's campaign is his 'Cozumel Armor' plan, which promises an unprecedented investment in security. The plan's measures range from crime prevention to improved policing and increased use of technology. He plans to install more security cameras and security gates to monitor vehicles and individuals entering the island.

However, Chacón Méndez acknowledges that technology alone is not the solution. His plan also includes better training and equipment for police, higher salaries for security personnel, and improved coordination with other levels of government.

Education is another key focus of his campaign. Chacón Méndez proposes to equip all public schools with air conditioning and to provide specialist training and psychological support for children.

Born in Cozumel to parents from Yucatan, 43-year-old Chacón Méndez attended local public schools and still lives in the island's Adolfo López Mateos neighborhood. He is often accompanied on the campaign trail by his wife, Diana Sosa. Chacón Méndez began his political career as a leader of the Revolutionary Youth Front and has held several public positions, including the General Directorate of Social Development and the General Directorate of the Parks and Museums Foundation of Cozumel.