Corrections intelligence analyst wins Prime Minister’s award

8 September 2011

Corrections intelligence analyst wins Prime Minister’s award

Corrections operational intelligence staff member Charmian Taylor has been awarded this year’s Prime Minister’s Prize in Strategic Studies from Victoria University for achieving excellent all-round academic performance.

Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Bill English presented the award Tuesday night at the ninth annual prize giving event for the Victoria University School of Government programmes.

With the official title of Prison Services National Strategic Analyst, Charmian already lives and breathes intelligence. She has now been recognised for her ‘straight A’ research on the use of technology by terrorist extremists and organised crime groups.

National Intelligence Manager Rick McKee says Charmian’s main piece of research was on the use of the internet and web based technology by extremists and criminals.

“It’s the 21st Century and crime covers all spheres. Charmian also looked at the opportunities this presents for intelligence bodies.

“At Corrections we do look at online technology as a method of preventing offenders committing crime from within prison. The research gives us increased understanding of wider issues.

“I’m pleased to see Charmian receive this award, she really deserves it. She’s already making a significant contribution to the New Zealand public sector and the researching processes she’s learned will be called upon daily in her job.

“Often it’s just a seemingly unimportant little piece of information that completes the picture and in turn acts to safeguard the public, staff or other prisoners.

“Public safety is our top priority, to keep communities safe by making sure offenders complete sentences and orders, and are held account if they don’t.”

Charmian Taylor says she was very surprised to receive the award but it is an honour to be recognised among her peers.

“It is recognition of three years worth of late nights and weekends spent studying,” she says.

ENDS

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