Introduction
If an agency suffers any loss or damage to any property, including tools and equipment, which is owned, leased or borrowed by the agency, and the agency believes the offender was involved, they can:
- contact the police and lay a charge of theft or damage
- claim for reparation through a court process, and
- discuss the matter with senior community work supervisor and/or probation officer.
Dealing with the agency
The following guidelines apply when an agency claims an offender is responsible for loss or damage to the agency’s property.
- Keep in mind at all times when dealing with the agency that it is important to maintain a good relationship with them.
- Inform the agency of their legal rights.
- Staff may not, verbally or otherwise, accept departmental liability on behalf of the agency for the cost of the loss or damage.
- Remove the offender from the placement.
- If considered necessary, remind the agency of the terms of the placement agreement.
- Record full details of the allegation and interview with the agency on the agency file, and the offender file on IOMS.
Note: If a charge is laid, the police may seek access to this as part of their investigations.
