Corrections’ project to improve the safe, secure and humane transportation of prisoners has seen two new significant developments.
From March, prisoners travelling by road will start wearing New Zealand-made waist restraints identified as the best of four models trialled at Christchurch, Waikeria and Auckland Central Remand Prisons over a period of four weeks at each site.
During a rigorous selection process, staff were asked to test each model and consider the fit, the ease with which they could apply and take the restraint off a prisoner and the ability of the belt to maintain the security of the prisoner.
The case for introducing waist restraints in vehicles was proven when the trials revealed less intimidation among prisoners and less graffiti.
The second change is that there will be mandatory rest breaks for longer escort journeys.
Depending on the number of prisoners being transported and the facilities available at the host site, most rest breaks will last 30 minutes to an hour. Prisoners will be given the chance to go to the toilet, have a drink and food and stretch their legs.
From March, prisoners travelling by road will start wearing New Zealand-made waist restraints.
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ISSN 1178-8453