19 May
New Plymouth Prison Manager Peter Madsen has had enough of prisoners acting up by activating cell sprinkler systems, and in partnership with New Plymouth Police he’s ensuring they pay for their petty vandalism.
Incidents, such as one last week where a prisoner broke the head off his cell sprinkler and flooded part of the unit he was accommodated in, are being investigated and prosecuted by police – with great results.
“The last prisoner to try this stunt at New Plymouth prison was referred to police straight away,” says Prison Manager Peter Madsen. “This resulted in him being prosecuted through the courts.
“Cell sprinklers are mandatory in prison cells, and they are there to protect staff and prisoners in the event of a fire. Prisoners that vandalise their cells in this way create a huge inconvenience to staff, outside agencies such as the New Zealand Fire Service, and to other prisoners housed in the same accommodation unit.
“There’s also a significant cost to the taxpayer with these acts of mindless vandalism, and when we pursue prosecution through the courts we are endeavouring to minimise those costs as much as possible.
“I’m no longer prepared to treat these incidents with internal charges, and I have made that clear to all prisoners at New Plymouth Prison. Having already successfully prosecuted for compensation, I will be actively pursuing any future vandals with the help of Police.
“I’ve also informed prisoners that the fire service can charge for nuisance call outs, and that I won’t have any hesitation in encouraging them to do so.”
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