Media Release
20 April 2004
Mercy Sentence A Joke Says Mark
New Zealand First law and order spokesperson, Ron Mark, is outraged at a Wellington Judge’s decision not to give a
Pakistani man a criminal conviction for indecent assault.
This comes after the news that Zeeshan Memon, who was found guilty of two charges of indecent assault, would be deported
but not convicted for his crimes.
“The Judge’s reason for his action as a ‘mercy sentence because he may face severe consequences on his return to
Pakistan if he had a criminal conviction, including being ostracised by his family, is utterly appalling,” said Mr Mark.
“This man has made a mockery of our justice system and I’m sure he will be laughing all the way back to Pakistan.
“It is unlikely that a New Zealander could cite such circumstances and be treated so leniently.
”If a person comes to live in New Zealand they must live by our laws and the judicial system must not make allowances
for them if they break the law.
“To say that Memon had offended because he had more freedom in New Zealand and found it hard to adjust is not an excuse
for his conduct.
“This man has not been punished at all for his behaviour, however his victim will have to live with his actions forever.
“Memon has turned the New Zealand justice system into a joke,” said Mr Mark.
ENDS