Crime Reduction Strategy Heading in the Right Direction - Rethinking Crime and Punishment

The Government’s Crime Reduction Strategy is heading in the right direction, according to Kim Workman, of Rethinking Crime and Punishment.

“Over the past few weeks we have sought the views of criminal justice professionals, academics, service providers, iwi and the wider community. The general view is that the government has developed a comprehensive crime reduction strategy, which has shifted from an historical focus on control, coercion, prisons and punishment. The new and broader vision which not only engages the relevant government agencies, but embraces the wider community and iwi in the business of reducing crime. For some years now, politicians have reminded the community about their role in reducing crime, but never provided them with a script. That has now changed.”

“Some commentators consider that the goals that have been set are unrealistic. In our view, it is refreshing to see government agencies set aspirational goals. In Christian ministries, the difference between what is achievable and what is aspirational is known as the ‘faith gap’. Faith and determination is what usually drives people toward achieving the higher target. In our view, it won’t matter if the higher target is not achieved – it’s being determined enough to attempt it that matters.”

There are some great features in the plan. Finally, recognition that crime is localised, should see justice resources diverted to where they are most needed – into communities like Kawerau, Flaxmere, and Fordlands. Recognising that 6% of victims’ experience 50% of crime, will also focus victim support resources on to high crime areas. Diverting young offenders away from the Youth system, and plans for early intervention have the potential to contribute.

“This is a complex plan, and its implementation will require a degree of sensitivity. Targeting high crime communities is commendable, but overzealous policing and ethnic profiling will produce the wrong results. Some Police Districts are more resistant to change than others, and will have to be coerced to follow the example of districts like South Auckland. In the case of child abuse (where only 10% of all incidents are currently reported), it may be necessary to emulate the success of the “It’s Not OK” campaign, and encourage community reporting – which will increase the reported rate in the medium term. Ongoing public education needs to part of the strategy; otherwise nervous politicians and a public impatient for early results will abandon ship.”

“There is one gap that needs to be filled for this plan to work. There are huge gaps in New Zealand research in key areas of criminal justice activity. We need for example, to understand better the impact of Police stop, search and apprehension procedures on youth; bail and remand practises, the extent of differential treatment of Maori and Pacific peoples, and the effectiveness of community based treatment. New programmes and initiaitves wil need be accompanied by effective evaluation processes, and effectiveness research should be part of the programme.

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