The Government has proposed harsher penalties and the introduction of on-the-spot fines of up to $1000 for low-level theft in an effort to deter shoplifters.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith and Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced the measures at a media conference at a central Auckland supermarket on Tuesday.
Goldsmith said public confidence in the justice system was undermined if people could steal with “apparent impunity”.
“It’s disheartening, and our Government will not sit by while shoplifters rob businesses of their livelihoods.”
Under the proposed changes, shoplifting goods worth up to $500 would carry infringement fees of up to $500, while stolen items valued over $500 could result in fines up to $1000.
Additionally, maximum prison sentences would increase to one year for thefts valued around $2000 or less, and up to seven years if the stolen goods exceeded $2000 in value.
A new offence of aggravated theft will be created for cases where goods valued under $2000 are stolen in a manner deemed offensive, threatening, insulting, or disorderly.
Goldsmith said the infringement regime offered an opportunity for a “quick ticket” rather than having to go through the courts.
Watch the Justice Minister announcing the proposals here.
“Because there’s such a high threshold to go to court, people aren’t doing it as much and so some are getting away without consequence. It’s easier, faster, and there are real consequences.”
The Government hoped to bring the bill to Parliament in the next few months and make it law by this time next year, Goldsmith said.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said public confidence in the justice system was undermined if people could steal with “apparent impunity”. (Source: 1News)
McKee said the extended sentences could mean up to twice as long behind bars for aggravated theft.
“Criminals will be forced to think twice before destroying more lives.
“Our Government is focused on restoring law and order, reducing violent crime, and putting victims first in our justice system.”
The changes fulfilled a commitment in the National-New Zealand First coalition agreement.
It is the third law and order announcement of the week from ministers, following tougher sentences for assaults on first responders and punishment of up to life in jail for “coward punches”.
Asked this week if harsher penalties for attacking emergency service workers would be a deterrent, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said: “It might well be. And I don’t care. I want it done because I want those people protected.”
