Sexual Offenders (Evening Post, 1 June 1944)
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Summary: Sexual Offenders (Evening Post, 1 June 1944)
On 1 June 1944, Under-Secretary of Justice Mr. B. L. Dallard addressed the public concerning remarks made by the Chief Justice during the sentencing of a man convicted of a sexual offence. Dallard clarified that it was impractical to segregate a small number of sexual offenders or establish a dedicated institution for them, countering any misconceptions about the judicial system's approach to such individuals. He noted that the Chief Justice's comments were misinterpreted, and while he referenced indecent exposure, the remarks pertained to broader sexual offences. Dallard pointed out that there has been a special institution for the treatment of sexual perverts within the prison system since 1908, specifically established under Prisons Regulation 380, which aims to segregate offenders who commit such crimes. The New Plymouth prison was highlighted as having a special setup that incorporates a psychological treatment regime under the guidance of a psychiatrist, emphasizing care and humanity while maintaining necessary discipline. There, the treatment focuses on the psychological conditions of the inmates to improve their mental states during their incarceration. The annual report from the medical officer illustrated the procedural depth of the institute's psychological evaluations, which involve thorough assessments of each inmate's mental and physical state upon their arrival. The report underscores the commitment to understanding and maintaining psychological rapport with the inmates. The prison routine was claimed to be supportive of psychological health, thanks to an enthusiastic staff, with the superintendent allowing a flexible approach to the inmates' rehabilitation. Dallard provided statistics from an earlier time frame, stating that from 1925 to 1936, 114 male offenders were discharged from the institution, with only four reoffending afterward. While it was clear that these inmates were not regarded as 'cured,' the data suggested that their mentalities had indeed shifted sufficiently to avoid further legal transgressions. He also highlighted the significant intelligence and self-awareness among many homosexual offenders, indicating that they recognized the moral implications of their actions, thus rendering them culpable under the law. Dallard characterized their offences as socially harmful and bestial, inherently warranting legal deterrence. He argued that suggesting offenders were victims of societal judgment was counterproductive to the treatment process. In summary, Mr. Dallard's statements emphasized a balanced view of the judicial system's approach to handling sexual offenders, advocating for humane treatment combined with psychological intervention while acknowledging the necessity of legal penalties for serious offences.
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