Skip to main content

Does the Department of Corrections ever rely on independent allegations made by third parties when applying to the Parole Board to have a paroled offender recalled, if so, does the Department verify these allegations and what steps are required to verify?

Answered Question 24991 (2026)
Question published
Reply lodged
Bookmark

Asked by

Rawiri Waititi

Member for Waiariki · Te Pāti Māori

Question

  • Does the Department of Corrections ever rely on independent allegations made by third parties when applying to the Parole Board to have a paroled offender recalled, if so, does the Department verify these allegations and what steps are required to verify?

Answered by

Hon Mark Mitchell

Member for Whangaparāoa · National Party · Minister of Corrections

Answer

I am advised that Corrections may consider third party allegations when assessing risk or compliance. However, staff will assess the source, ensure corroboration and consistency with other information, and the seriousness of the risk. Where there are credible public safety concerns, a precautionary approach may be taken even if verification is ongoing.