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Archived Press Releases 2008 30th October 2008

JUDGES GET SUPPORT FROM UNEXPECTED QUARTER

(30th October 2008)

The public are blaming the Judge but the Sensible Sentencing Trust say changes made to the Bail Act last year are directly responsible for a 32 year-old mother’s death.

Rikki Hopa was charged with the murder of a 22-month-old toddler in June last year and was granted bail while awaiting trial.

A vehicle driven by Hopa was overtaking when it collided with a car driven by 32 year Angela Wolley who died at the scene, Hopa was also killed.

Mr McVicar said offenders charged with serious offences would not have been granted Bail under the old legislation.

"The new Bail Act which was introduced in October last year has meant that many offenders charged with serious offences are being granted Bail."

"The public blame the Judges but this is Government sponsored legislation and it is solely the Government that should be held accountable."

"This legislation is killing innocent people, how many more innocent people must die before this disastrous piece of legislation is dispensed with?"

Regards,

Garth McVicar
National Spokesperson,
Sensible Sentencing Trust.