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We need chain gangs, say justice campaigners

by Tom van B | August 21, 2007 at 12:15 pm

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The Sensible Sentencing Trust (New Zealand) is an organization that campaigns to toughen the prison terms for criminals. They view our sentencing at present far too lenient and woolly. This hardening of views is gaining momentum in the wake of some horrific murders and cases of extreme child abuse.

Justice campaigners are calling for the introduction of chain gangs in New Zealand after seeing them in action on a visit to Arizona.

The Sensible Sentencing Trust said the prison system here would benefit from adopting the hardline policy used in some American states.

Garth McVicar, the trust's spokesman, said the chain gangs he saw were inspirational. He also wants to see " tent prisons".

Mr 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.

"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 resulting in escalating levels of violent crime and more prisons being built".....

Image on this page is courtesy of Campbell Live, TV3.

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Tom van B

at 02:47 on August 22nd, 2007

generaldecay, Thanks for that. I personally would not like to see American style chain gangs here in New Zealand. For lesser offences people here sometimes are sentenced to so many hours of "community work". Societies with extreme punitive attitudes have not reduced crime or reduced incarcerations. It's a difficult one.