16 Violent Offences Every Day In Wellington

Heather Roy
Monday, 3 April 2006
Press Releases - Crime & Justice

An increase in violent crime, and today's bank robbery in Police Minister Annette King's electorate, takes the shine off Wellington's 2005 District Crime Statistics according to Wellington-based ACT MP Heather Roy.

"Last year's crime statistics show some positive gains, but violent offending is still on the rise, with an average of 16 Wellingtonians reporting a violent crime every day last year", Mrs Roy said.

"Violent offences rose 11.4% across the region, with serious assaults up 59% in Lower Hutt and violent crime increasing 47% in Upper Hutt.

"While total recorded crime in the Wellington region dropped slightly last year, the percentage of crimes resolved has also decreased. It's no wonder that law abiding Wellingtonians still feel under seige in their homes and communities.

"This morning's bank robbery in the Police Minister's own electorate of Rongotai shows that, too often, thugs and thieves still hold the upper hand.

"Reported robberies increased by almost 28% in Wellington last year, with fewer than half being resolved.

"Our Police do a good job, but they are often overwhelmed and frustrated by a weak, revolving door justice system", Mrs Roy said.

"A high proportion of crimes are committed by a small core of recidivist offenders. Police admit that targetting known burglars decreased burglary, while car crimes increased following the release of repeat car crime offenders.

"Police shouldn't have to keep chasing the same criminals - we need proper sentences that criminals have to serve in full, ending the failed experiment of parole.

"Our cops, courts and corrections services deserve to get the resources and leadership they need to keep law abiding Kiwis safe from thugs and thieves", Mrs Roy said.

ENDS

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