Longer sentences coming

Tougher sentences for the worst criminals will go before the cabinet shortly, says Justice Minister Phil Goff.

The proposed law changes include raising minimum sentences for murderers such as Karla Cardno's killer, Paul Dally.

Crimes like Dally's should attract a minimum sentence of "much more" than 10 years, said Mr Goff.

Other proposed changes included the Parole Board not being required to consider offenders for release every year, even if they were eligible.

"This would reduce the trauma that those like the Cardno family endure every year."

Mr Goff said he was unable to comment on yesterday's sentencing of Mark Middleton for threatening to kill Dally because of political interference issues.

But he understood the emotion that tempted people to take the law into their own hands in such cases.

"If it were my daughter, I would feel exactly the same."

Mr Goff said the proposed changes would lead to more sentences being tailored to fit crimes.

He cited Janine Albury-Thompson's killing of her autistic daughter as an example of a case that should not attract a minimum sentence of 10 years.