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Archived Press Releases 2009 16th July 2009

Commit the crime – do the time

(16th July 2009)

Two youths aged 11 and 13 took part in a “serious” group attack on disabled people and yet they are too young to be prosecuted. Time to reduce the age of criminal responsibility!

Leah Matena, Sensible Sentencing Trust Christchurch representative is outraged that these young thugs may get away with a serious assault only to go onto more serious offences until such a time as they can be prosecuted. “What cost to society will there be once they reach the age of current criminal responsibility if we do not intervene now and no consequences are laid out”.

“They think they are old enough to take part in a serious group attack on innocent people and yet cry too young when they are to face up to their crime. I say, if you are prepared to commit an adult crime, you should face up and be charged as such”

“This crime was made worse by the fact they ‘picked’ on three impaired people, one physically impaired, one intellectually and were part of a group of five attackers ranging in age from 11 years to 22 years. This was a gutless attack on innocent people and there is no way they should not be held responsible for their actions and charged.”

It is well past the time to reduce the age of criminal responsibility. It is time the Government took action on this issue and faced up to the fact that our criminals are getting younger and younger. Reduce the age of criminal responsibility and maybe the consequences would outweigh the benefits of the crime.

Regards,

Leah Matena
Christchurch Spokesperson,
Sensible Sentencing Trust.
Mobile 027 3066 458
Leah Matena is a long standing member of the Sensible Sentencing Trust. Leah is the elected Chair and media liaison officer of the newly formed Christchurch division.