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Archived Press Releases 2006 3rd October 2006

Violent crime "out of control"

(3rd October 2006)

"It looks like this Labour government has given up on preventing violent crime," says Sensible Sentencing Crime Prevention spokesperson Marc Alexander.

"Despite the rhetoric from the beehive, and a procession of daft ideas to stem the tide of violence, criminals are having a field-day knowing that this government is not serious about the safety concerns of the public.

"While the ministers responsible for our criminal justice system debate Open prisons, Home Detentions in lieu of prison time, shorter sentences, and our new prisons receive an $11 million dollar landscaping refurbishment complete with gyms and under floor heating; violent crime has risen by 10.2 percent, grievous assaults by 19 percent, murders by 31 percent and robberies up 20% just in the last year

"Meanwhile crimes virtually unheard of just a few short years ago like kidnapping and abductions have sky-rocketed up by 46 percent.

"This government needs a reality check: criminals do not need more self-esteem counseling sessions or get in touch with their feelings. They need to know that their choice of a criminal lifestyle will be met with timely and appropriate punishment and consequence; that politicians, judges, and the prison system is firmly on the side of the victim; and that their continued refusal to abide by laws governing civil society will not be tolerated.

"With a staggering 86 percent recidivism rate within five years of release, the 30 year experiment in failed rehabilitation foisted on us by criminal rights advocates and behavioral apologists must be brought to an end."

Regards,

Marc Alexander
Crime Prevention Spokesperson,
Sensible Sentencing Trust.
Mobile 021 390058