Jackets Great Deterrent To Crime
New Zealand First law and order spokesperson Ron Mark is calling on police around the country to emulate some of their
colleagues and require young offenders to wear bright identification jackets when they are doing community work.
Ailsa Duffy QC has voiced concerns that youths charged with minor crimes are taking part in a youth diversion scheme
which involves them picking up rubbish wearing bright jackets with the words ‘police diversion’ written on the back.
“Shame is a great deterrent to crime and could save some youths from a future life of crime and a life spent in and out
of jail,” said Mr Mark.
“This is a form of punishment that the young offenders’ parents have given written permission for their children to take
part in, in the hope that the children will learn early on that crime does not pay.
“To stop such a scheme would be utterly ridiculous and increase the likelihood of re-offending and the costs associated
with that.
“It is carrying political correctness too far to abandon such a commendable scheme that can only do good. Children need
to learn that if they do the crime they will be punished, and that they are responsible for their actions,” said Mr
Mark.