Cleaning up the security industry
A major blow to organised crime in our community was struck last month when the police raided gang houses around the North Island, including Levin, Otaki and Shannon.
Around half a million dollars was seized along with vehicles, cash and other assets.
This sends a loud and clear message to gangs and those dealing drugs, that they are not welcome in our communities.
Over the last two years the National-led Government has passed tough new laws to crack down heavily on gangs.
We’ve brought in tougher sentences and a ‘three-strikes’ policy for the worst offenders, which will keep some of the most dangerous people off our streets.
The police now have tasers and more legal powers to go after drug dealers and seize their assets, thanks to the Criminal Proceeds Act and the Criminal Amendment Act.
Every person convicted of an offence in the District or High Court now has to pay an offender levy of $50, which has raised around $2 million for victim support services in just the first seven months.
One of the issues I’ve been working on as Associate Minister of Justice is tidying up the security industry. I recently announced new regulations for those working as security guards, bouncers or private investigators.
A couple of recent tragic cases have highlighted the need for change. Two young men died after incidents involving bouncers in Blenheim when things got out of hand.
This is why we’ve brought in regulation for the first time. Bouncers often work in volatile situations, late at night where the threat of violence is present. It’s important that we have the right people working in this area.
Licensing will involve a criminal background check on all applicants, and serious convictions for violence, drugs or dishonesty are likely to lead to disqualification.
It will be another small but important step in building safer communities.