Weatherston jail interview 'broke security'

Clayton Weatherston gives evidence during his murder trial. Photo / Supplied

The Corrections Department will lay a formal complaint with TV3 after a journalist infiltrated a prison to speak to convicted murderer Clayton Weatherston.

Reporter Alison Horwood interviewed Weatherston's parents, Roger and Yuleen, which was broadcast on 60 Minutes on Monday.

During the story, Ms Horwood spoke of visiting Weatherston in prison. The breach of security has broken strict Corrections Department rules, said Mike Martelli, general manager of the office of chief executive Barry Matthews.

He said all media interviews with prisoners require the approval of Mr
Matthews. "No approval was given for a journalist from TV3's 60 Minutes to interview prisoner Clayton Weatherston, nor was any approach made to the department requesting an interview.

Mark Jennings, TV3 director of news and current affairs, said he understood Ms Horwood had filled out the Corrections' form [to visit prisoners] correctly and spoke to Weatherston, who gave her his CV.

Weatherston was found guilty of murdering his ex-girlfriend Sophie Elliott last week, unsuccessfully using the partial defence of provocation despite stabbing or cutting her 216 times.