Tonight's Hawke's Bay Today has an headline quoting a letter from inmates being held in the police cells because of the current over-crowding.
In the letter they are claiming their rights have been breached ... blah, blah, and " ... we are seeking compensation."
After the ridiculous judgement last week where compensation was awarded to prisoners for "mistreatment" and denial of rights, every low life in the system is now going to have a go at getting them some of the loot.
The lawyer for the crims was quoted as saying that he didn't have a problem with them being paid compensation because they shouldn't be denied their rights as citizens. Bloody hell! These wallies gave up their rights as a citizen when they went down the steps! When they prove they can function as responsible citizens in society, then maybe they can have some of the rights.
We seem to be forgetting that citizenship is a right which must be earned, and then defended, not something to be claimed and exploited by bottom-feeding scum!
Damages compensation should NOT be paid to criminals in jail. They should be able to gain justice for any perceived wrongs and have their day in court, but their compensation should only being found right.
If they are being held in remand, and are subsequently found not guilty, only then perhaps reparation should be considered.
I think the judge was plain wrong, and their lawyer is a fool.
</rant>