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1) Life to mean life for aggravated murder with no right of parole?
Yes. A 'life' sentence should mean what it implies: the term of natural life with no possibility of parole. United Future would not restrict such a sentence for aggravated murder alone but include other heinous crimes (such as, for example, serial rapists) where the criminal would constitute a continuing threat; and/or where the interests of victims dictate.
2) End current parole system and introduce ongoing supervision upon release as determined by a judge for all repeat violent offenders and sex offenders?
Yes. All violent offenders would be given preventative detention with a binding sentence (which would give certainty to victims as well as offenders). Upon release a supervision regime will be determined under which a breach will result in a return to prison. Also because the sentence is one of preventative detention, even if the sentence has been completed, if the offender is assessed to be an ongoing threat to the community, we will have the authority to keep him incarcerated.
3) Compulsory DNA testing upon conviction for Crimes Act crimes?
Yes
4) Victims before criminals-true restitution and reparation for victims by criminals, plus real support for victims?
Yes. United Future will make it an obligatory to have a Minister dedicated to the role of Victims advocate with inter-ministerial authority to ensure that each branch of the criminal justice system puts the interests of victims first. Such an approach would have a raft of consequences including training for police and judges to understand the victims perspective; victims right to appeal a sentence if deemed inappropriate; and legal aid for victims etc
5) Provide preventive detention by way of secure confinement for criminally insane or criminals with diagnosed mental illness?
Yes. United Future will strongly push for a dedicated mental health facility for those judged 'mad' rather than 'bad' but who pose a risk to the community by their offending.
6) Amend legislation to ensure that any future prisoner compensation be paid direct to victims or a consolidated victim fund?
Yes. Under United Future no prisoner will be eligible for any compensation nor proceeds as a result of crime.
7) Reduce the age of criminal responsibility under the Crimes Act?
Yes.
8) Victims to have true input into sentencing and parole?
Yes. United Future will advocate for victims to have full status in court and allow for participation through an advocate to argue for an appropriate sentence. Judges will be expected to take victims views into consideration (with the right of appeal) as well as wider community interests for sentencing. Under United Future Parole will be transformed into a supervision regime rather than the current practice of shortening sentences.
9) Abolish concurrent sentencing for all crimes under the Crimes Act with particular emphasis on violent and sex offenders?
Yes. United Future intends to abolish all concurrent sentences. Each offence will have its price - no discounts.
10) Introduce the concept of consequences in prison, with focus to be placed on job training, education and work skills?
Yes. Apart from drug/alcohol rehab and literacy programs, the primary focus of prison life will be work. All privaliges will have to be earned with 'profits' going to Victims' Support, restitution, fund for victims needs, board and upkeep.