Using Evidence to Build a Better Justice System: The challenge of rising prison costs

Prison population over 30 years. pn368

This is the full report by Sir Peter Gluckman on the justice system, a brief mention of which was posted under the heading "Media Spreads Mis-Information on Crime and Punishment: Sir Peter Gluckman" (pn364) last week.

The  report explores the factors that have led New Zealand to have a high incarceration rate and the associated impacts on the capital cost of prisons. A second report, due soon, will explore factors that are particularly relevant to youth offenders.


The Gluckman  report, which calls for more data and less dogma,  shows that there is no evidence to support claims that being "tough on crime" reduces the crime rate of makes ordinary citizens any safer. 

The data on sentencing, parole, costs, mental illness, Maori, gangs and the drug trade is compelling,  but I would have liked more than generalities on what can be done to reduce offending and preparing prisoners for life after prison. A staggering 71% of prisoners were basically illiterate.. 

A third report with recommendations —and a lot more action— is urgently needed on job training,  hobbies, budgeting and savings, alcoholism and drug rehabilitation,  family and personal relations, and literacy.


-- ACW