Vigilantism will become a reality – McVicar

15/07/2014

“This sentence is an insult to every New Zealander and will continue the demise and loss of faith in what can now only be described as Mickey Mouse legal process at best.”

The Sensible Sentencing Trust is warning that people will take the law into their own hands if their confidence in the justice process continues to be eroded by pathetic sentences.

Trust Spokesperson Garth McVicar made the comments after a man who violently assaulted Merivale man Lance Scullin was given a jail sentence of just 1 year.

Mr Scullin was found dead after being hit over the head with a fence paling when he went to the aid of another man who was being assaulted by gang members including Lance Mihaka who admitted the assault, unlawful assembly and driving with an excess breath alcohol, and driving while forbidden.

“This sentence is an insult to every New Zealander and will continue the demise and loss of faith in what can now only be described as Mickey Mouse legal process at best. It is certainly not a Justice System.”

“This pitiful sentence will contribute to the already widespread frustration in the community and will do nothing to deter those talking about extracting their own justice.”

“While I will never encourage vigilantism I can certainly sympathise with those who see no other option. I understand why people could reach a boiling point and consider taking the law into their own hands.”

McVicars comments come at a time the Police Minister has warned about possible vigilante attacks on convicted paedophiles if a publicly available sex-offender register was implemented.

“It seems that our legislators and Judges are determined to infuriate the public to the point where vigilantism is a reality.”

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ENDS

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