Figures show parole system working

File Photo.

The parole system is working, according to a New Zealand Parole Board analysis of decisions over the past eight years.

The analysis, which focused on offenders who were released between July 1999 and June this year after serving prison sentences of greater than two years, showed a significant drop in reoffending, the Parole Board said.

Despite an increase in the number of parolees, the number of people committing crimes while on parole had more than halved, dropping from about 100 per month in 2002 to about 45 per month currently.

Among its other findings, the analysis showed a dramatic increase in the number of parole-eligible prisoners being detained for more than 70 per cent of their imposed sentence, increasing from about 10 per cent in 2003 and 2004 to nearly 50 per cent now.

There was a 50 per cent increase in the number of long-term sentences imposed each year, and the number of long-serving offenders being managed in the community had doubled, with about 800 in 1999 to 1600 at present.

Parole Board chairman Judge David Carruthers said the decrease in reoffending was hugely gratifying.

"We've been looking for proof that what we're doing is achieving the best possible outcome, but these statistics are even better than we had anticipated. They are in line with the best international figures - and show that with the right risk assessments, parole works."

However, Sir David said the board would continue to look at ways to improve.

"We know that we live on the edge of risk, and that many other factors can influence the outcome, even when the best decisions are made."

- NZPA