New Figures Show Prison Works
David Garrett MP, ACT New Zealand
Wednesday, November 4 2009

ACT New Zealand Law & Order Spokesman David Garrett today released new information to prove that prison works as an effective deterrent to crime and showing that a huge proportion of offenders who serve a prison sentence make sure they do not have to do so again.

"Answers to my written Parliamentary Questions have revealed a significant drop in the number of prisoners who, having served one prison sentence, are sentenced again," Mr Garrett said.

"According to these figures: as of October 27, 65 percent of the total prison population - 4,315 inmates - had served at least one prior sentence. Yet only 35 percent of the prison population - 2,312 - had served three sentences.

"This information flies completely in the face of those who claim prison does not work. The fact is that the more time an offender spends in prison, the more reluctant they are to return once they have been released.

"Only a small number of offenders are constantly recycled through the prison system. The vast majority of prisoners learn the error of their ways.

"This is the logic behind ACT's 'Three Strikes': strikes one and two will deter all but the worst offenders - and they will be locked up to ensure they cannot harm anyone else. Whether the critics of 'Three Strikes' want to believe it or not, the fact is that prison works," Mr Garrett said.

ENDS

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