Tough Line Not Tough Talk Demands Mark
New Zealand law and order spokesperson Ron Mark says figures provided by the Minister of Justice about the number of
criminals whose sentences have been deferred are a cause for great concern.
Mr Mark has been told that the sentences of over 450 offenders have been deferred according to the latest figures
available.
“All over New Zealand there are convicted criminals free to go about their daily business before they begin their jail
sentences. The figures show that some have been convicted for violent crimes, drug related offences, offences against
other people and property.
“Add to this the fact that we have violent criminals on home detention and it shows why these offenders commit crime in
the first place when faced with such a lenient justice and corrections system.
“No wonder New Zealanders do not feel safe on our streets.
“It’s bad enough to have undetected criminals on the loose but it really beggars belief to have criminals, who have been
convicted and sentenced to jail, roaming free as well.”
“I am fed up with hearing the Government telling the public they are tough on criminals and concerned for victims, when
all the real evidence shows they are pandering to the offenders,” said Mr Mark.