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Archived Press Releases 2007 20th August 2007

ARIZONA JUSTICE SYSTEM PROVES HARDLINE WORKS SAYS RETURNING SST DELEGATION FROM USA

(20th August 2007)

NZ should adopt no-nonsense policies like chain gangs and no contact visits preventing drugs and cell-phones in prisons.

Just back from a fact finding trip to Arizona and California , the Sensible Sentencing Trust believes the New Zealand Prison system would greatly benefit from adopting so-called hardline American policy.

Trust spokesman Garth McVicar said, "Most people think chain gangs are draconian and cruel but from what we have seen that is absolute nonsense, the female chain gangs in particular are an inspiration to watch – it is entirely voluntary and they work with a zest and enthusiasm unparalleled in this country”.

A combination of chain gangs and tent prisons could be hugely beneficial here McVicar said, “Tent prisons do not have drugs or cell phones, and smoking or watching porn movies are not permitted”.

“We believe New Zealand ’s current prison policy is on the wrong track and will continue to result in escalating levels of violent crime and more prisons being built”.

McVicar said he and two female journalists walked amongst 600 inmates doing random interviews with only one prison guard present. “These prisons are humane and extremely well run; discipline is a key feature with inmates under no illusion that breaches of the rules will be met with a punishment to suit”.

The Sensible Sentencing Trust visit to Arizona featured on Campbell Live on Monday the 20th.

Regards,

Garth McVicar
National Spokesperson,
Sensible Sentencing Trust.