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Archived Press Releases 2004 22nd September 2004

SOS for Victims of compo crims

(22nd September 2004)

The Sensible Sentencing Trust is contemplating legal action to stop compensation being paid to criminals.

The Trust has issued an urgent SOS call for the victims of the criminals who are suing the Corrections Department, alleging mistreatment and psychological torture while in prison.

Five inmates have so far succeeded in getting $130,000 awarded in a High Court judgement last week, with another 200 considering similar action.

The Trust National spokesman said they have been in touch with some of the victim's families involved but would like to make contact with as many as possible.

Mr McVicar said they are asking all the victims or their families to "please get in touch with us; any possible Court action needs the support of as many families as possible. The Sensible Sentencing Trust is prepared to fund this action, but we need your blessing" he said.

We have spoken to victims who have explained the devastation this whole criminal compensation saga has caused them, this is all about choices. These criminals made a disastrous choice that landed them in prison in the first place, now they are being rewarded for continuing to make the wrong choices.

The victims have no choice and no say in this. Not only do they have to live daily with the original offence, they now have to face the traumatic experience of seeing these criminals getting a financial bonanza and rewarded for continuing to display the unacceptable behaviour that landed them in prison in the first place.

Anyone wanting further information is urged to contact the Sensible Sentencing Trust on 027 2487 919 or email sensiblesentencing@xtra.co.nz

Regards,

Garth McVicar
National Spokesperson,
Sensible Sentencing Trust.