Rethinking Calls for Coordinated Approach to Prisoner Reintegration

The High Court direction to release Bailey Kurariki from prison doesn't alter the fact that he breached his parole by smoking cannabis, said Kim Workman , Director, Rethinking Crime and Punishment. He needs to be confronted about that, and a strategy put in place to deal with it. Those supporting Bailey would have preferred that the Probation Service sought community support and assistance in dealing with that issue, rather than recalling him to prison. It was an overreaction, as was the Police decision to send 13 police officers and a helicopter to arrest him. It has the potential to sour Bailey's future attitude toward authority.

There are still members of the public prepared to provide additional support for Bailey, and the money spent on police salaries, helicopters and imprisonment, would be far better directed toward funding additional community support. What is now needed, is a strategy that encourages and supports his positive behaviour, rather than 'over the top' compliance requirements and enforcement. He may be 'high profile', but he is not considered by those who know him to be 'high risk'.

"What is needed at present is a reintegration policy that makes a clear distinction between the role of probation in ensuring parolees comply with Court Orders, and those people within the community who are able to influence and support offenders toward lawful conduct."

ENDS

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