Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
MP for Maungakiekie

22 January 2010
Media Statement

Worst offenders will face three-strikes sentencing regime

Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, welcomes legislation that will ensure the worst repeat offenders receive the maximum allowable sentence.

“The Sentencing and Parole Reform Bill will plug a gap in the law regarding the punishment of the most serious repeat offenders – those people who consistently pose a very real threat to the safety and security of New Zealanders," Maungakiekie MP, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga says.

“This Bill will uphold National’s election promise of no parole for the worst repeat violent offenders, and incorporates significant aspects of ACT’s three-strikes policy.

“This Government has been serious about better meeting the needs of victims. This legislation and its three-strikes provisions is an acknowledgement that the justice system exists to serve the victims, rather than offenders.”

Under the three-strikes regime, an offender will receive a standard sentence and warning for the first serious offence. For the second offence they will get a jail term (in most cases) with no parole and a further warning. On conviction for their third serious offence, the offender will receive the maximum penalty in prison for that offence with no parole.

“Some may see this Bill as harsh. But it’s only harsh on the very worst and most dangerous of repeat offenders,” Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga says.

“By helping keep the worst repeat offenders behind bars for longer and deterring criminals from committing further crimes because of the escalating severity of sentences, this legislation will help make NZ a better, safer place.”

ENDS

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