CLEMENCY TO OFFENDERS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21983, 14 December 1934, Page 17

CLEMENCY TO OFFENDERS

Sir, —Referring to letters from "Citizen" and "Ex-prisoner" appearing in your issues of December 11 and 12, I crave some of your valuable space to endorse the common-sense Christian view expressed therein. As secretary of the Auckland Discharged Prisoners' Aid Society, I have before me official figures, published in the Prisons' Department report "for the year 1933-34. It is interesting to note there was a decrease of 402 receptions into Mount Eden prison during this period, with a decrease in the daily average muster of .61. Embodied in the report is an acknowledgment of this society's work, intimating that the improvement in the statistics is largely attributed to the work of the society. When one considers that receptions for the year were 1259 and 1339 were discharged 1 the work of assisting, not only prisoners and exprisoners, but also their dependants, especially wives and children who are the innocent sufferers, is indeed a most important national service. The work of the society can be carried on only by the generous support of the public and the activities of the society are the best insurance against crime. One can see by " Ex-prisoner's " letter that the work is certainly appreciated, and we have many' such letters voicing appreciation, but unfortunately our funds do not allow of us doing all we should like to. May I appeal to the public of Auckland for further support, especially at this present festive season? Donations of money for Christmas cheer will be thankfully received in helping to bring a little joy into the lives of the wives and children. G. E. Moketont, Secretary Auckland Discharged Prisoners' Aid Society, .. 66 Khyber Pass Road, C.B.