Green MP Jan Logie, who has been a tireless advocate within Parliament for the rights of trans prisoners, says the most recent allegations of sexual assault need to be independently investigated. “These are very serious allegations and need independent investigation,” says Logie. “The State has an absolute duty to ensure the safety of all prisoners. I will be requesting the ombudsman to investigate these specific allegations.” Logie highlights the fact that this is not an isolated case and says, “There have been three very serious separate complaints regarding the safety of trans women prisoners within a year. “There needs to be an independent investigation of how Corrections is ensuring the safety of this group of prisoners.” Logie says the Green Party will be writing to the Human Rights Commission requesting them to initiate a review under the Crimes Against Torture Act. “This Act enables an independent subcommittee and experts to conduct interviews, investigate and report on the conditions and treatment of detainees to protect against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Thursday, 10th March 2016 - 4:34pm