Corrections statement

Ray Smith, Chief Executive, Department of Corrections

In February this year a prisoner was injured after falling from the landing in a cell block at MECF.

The prisoner suffered fractures to his left ankle and right leg.

As a result the Chief Inspector began an investigation to determine what happened. The Inspectorate has now completed its report which awaits a response from Serco.

Due to the current high public interest in this case I have taken the unusual move of releasing key findings before Serco completes its response.

The Inspectorate concluded that the prisoner fell as a result of being chased by another offender who then physically assaulted the prisoner. There was no suggestion made in the report of any practice of ‘dropping’.

He was hospitalised, treated and returned to prison.

Corrections National Office operations were informed of the incident within the required 24 hour period advising a serious accident following an assault.

The Inspectorate’s investigation found no evidence that MECF staff were aware that the prisoner’s welfare was at risk prior to their officer witnessing him fall over the balustrade and being chased by another prisoner.

The Inspectorate is satisfied that the unit was appropriately staffed on the day of the assault and that prison management dealt with the incident in a manner that was deemed appropriate at the time.

The Chief Inspector is expecting a formal response from Serco as soon as possible.

I think it’s important now that we allow the Chief Inspector with the support of the Ombudsman to complete his review and that anyone who has any information that would assist the Chief Inspector should forward it to theinspector@corrections.govt.nz.

ENDS

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