NEWS CLP vows tough bail laws

judith.aisthorpe@news.com.au

UNDER a Country Liberal government, bail laws will be strengthened with a presumption against bail for repeat offenders and those arrested while already on bail.

The election policy outlines a presumption against bail for both adult and youth serial offenders convicted of two or more offences in the previous two years.

Those who are granted bail will also be required to wear an ankle monitoring device in an effort to discourage reoffending and allow for 24/7 monitoring.

Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro said the policy was about being tough on crime and to stop the cycle of reoffending.

“A Country Liberal government has a plan to stop the cycle of crime, bail and reoffending though constructive changes to the Territory’s bail legislation,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.

“The Gunner government’s ‘catch and release’ policy has only taught criminals they can reoffend without consequences.”

She said the changes would be implemented in the first sitting of parliament if the CLP wins the election.

She said the CLP would also look to make the job of police easier by creating a system where they are given real-time alerts when a person who is being electronically monitored breaches the conditions their bail.

“All too often offenders are released on bail just hours after they’re arrested, only to be out on the street the same day to reoffend,” she said.

“Victims of crime shouldn’t have to live in fear that the same person that broke into their home on Friday night will be free on Saturday to return.” of

She said the changes would work alongside the party’s four-point plan to tackle youth crime, which includes, moving youth justice from Territory Families back to Corrections, ensuring that youth offenders given diversion undertake mandatory community service, ensuring victims are put first in a community led solution approach to youth crime.