Bailey Kurariki Holding Up Against Huge Odds
"Bailey Kurariki Jnr has held up until now, against huge odds", said Kim Workman, former National Director of Prison
Fellowship, on hearing that Bailey had been arrested on suspicion of using illicit drugs. "We should now wait to hear
what the evidence is against Bailey, before joining in the community chorus of "I told you so". "
"The information we have, is that this was far from a 'routine inspection' as reported by the media. Bailey was at home
with his sister and father, when the Police knocked at his door. They didn't enter his house, but immediately arrested
Bailey. The family reported a helicopter hovering overhead, and counted between 30 and 40 policeman in the street, They
were astounded that though Bailey was immediately arrested, the house was not searched for drugs. He was taken to the
Auckland Remand Prison and tested for drug use. It would seem that his probation officer had sworn an affidavit, which
the police acted on.
Bailey's family asked the Police if their reaction was because they were taking legal action against Corrections for
losing Bailey's dossier.
"If this version of events is correct, then the Police must have evidence of substantial wrongdoing. They have behaved
as though they were dealing with one of the FBI's 10 most wanted, an unusual response for someone suspected of smoking
pot."
"Bailey will be appearing before the Parole Board for breach of parole. If Bailey has breached, then he has to face the
consequences of that. If there is no evidence, then he should be released immediately."
"Bailey has a lot of support from people who have helped him withstand significant community harassment and
stigmatisation, following his release. They will continue to both support him and hold him accountable. The community
supporters who work with him consider that Bailey has done really well."
Ends