Ratio of prisoners stays the same

Press, 27 July 1987, Page 13

Ratio of prisoners stays the same

PA Wellington In spite of a recently introduced policy of returning offenders to the community, the ratio of prisoners to the population was the same during the 1986 financial year as it was in 1976, according to the Justice Department’s annual report. Last year the ratio was 16.92 per 10,000 of population. In 1976 it was 16.91. The 1986 figure is an increase on the 1985 figure of 15.69 but a decrease from 1984 when the ratio was 18.11. As at December 31, 1986, there were 2690 men and women imprisoned, 2064 on parole, 4475 in periodic detention, 5354 under supervision, 1684 doing community service and 542 in community care. Psychological advice was given to 970 prisoners during the year compared with 807 the year before.

That advice was given to 536 probationers in 1986 and 519 in 1985. It was implemented in 349 cases last year, a drop from 483 in 1985. Private practitioners provided advice in about 338 cases at a cost of $lBO,OOO.

The director of the department’s Psychological Services, Mr Harry Love, said the difference between the advice and implementation figures was a result in many cases of prisoners moving on to other prisons or being released before the advice recommended could be put into action. Individuals could also decline to take treatment.

He was satisfied with the level of psychological treatment which was reflected in the small waiting lists, usually nd more than four to eight weeks, he said.