OFFENDERS PROBATION UNDER OFFENDERS PROBATION ACT, 1920, AND CRIMES AMENDMENT ACT, 1910 (REPORT ON OPERATION OF), FOR THE YEAR 1946

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1947 Session I, H-20b

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1947 NEW ZEALAND

OFFENDERS PROBATION UNDER OFFENDERS PROBATION ACT, 1920, AND CRIMES AMENDMENT ACT, 1910 (REPORT ON OPERATION OF), FOR THE YEAR 1946

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency

The Hon. the Minister of Justice to His Excellency the Governor-General. Sir, — Wellington, 31st July, 1947. I have the honour to submit to Your Excellency the report of the Chief Probation Officer on the operations of the Offenders Probation Act for the year ended 31st December, 1946. I have, &c., H. G. R. Mason, Minister of Justice.

The Chief Probation Officer to the Hon. the Minister of Justice. Sir, — I have the honour to present the annual report on the operation of the Offenders Probation Act, 1920, and the parole system under the Crimes Amendment Act, 1910, for the year ended 31st December, 1946. I also append hereto a synopsis of each of the reports furnished by the principal district Probation Officers. These reports and the general statistics show that probationers, in the main, have responded reasonably satisfactorily to the opportunities afforded under the probation system, just over 10 per cent, of the total number of cases dealt with during the year being required to be brought up for breaches of the conditions of their probationary licence. The tables appended hereto show that a total of 992 persons were placed under the care of Probation Officers during the year, which is again in excess of the number recorded for many years past. Of the 919 formally admitted to probation, as distinct from the 73 placed under a deferred sentence, it is to be noted that 61 per cent, were under twenty-five years of age (31 per cent, being under twenty). Probation is not confined to young offenders, nor, as originally conceived when the Act was first introduced in 1886, to first offenders, but may be used by the Courts as a means of dealing with any offender whose offence renders him liable to imprisonment and who, having regard to all the circumstances of the case, is deemed worthy of a chance and is considered likely to respond to probationary treatment. It is interesting to note that 3 persons over the age of seventy years were admitted to probation. An examination of the table headed " Nature of Offence " reveals that the majority of cases dealt with under the Offenders Probation Act were for offences against property, no less than 73 per cent, being of a predatory nature. There were an unusally large

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number of ship-desertion cases (68), and it was interesting to note that the district Probation Officers report that the majority of these conformed satisfactorily to a condition of probation, a number taking up employment again on ships and the balance being absorbed in industry locally. The wideness of the range of offences for which the clemency of probation was used is rather striking. For example, there appears, inter alia, in the table appended hereto such offences as bigamy, breach of bankruptcy, and buggery. The Courts have regard more to the circumstances of a case than to the nature of the crime, and in determining the penalty are required to have regard to the interests of the public and of the offender. An English writer recently raised the question whether oyeremphasis on the needs of the offender rather than his deeds, and the stressing of mitigating circumstances rather than society's rights, may not diminish both respect for the law and a sense of responsibility for personal actions.. As stated recently by Lord. Goddard, C.J.; " The Judge must consider the interests of justice as well as the interests of the prisoners. It is too often now-a-days thought, or seems to be thought, that the interests of justice means only the interests of the prisoners." The amount of restitution moneys and costs of prosecution collected during the year totalled £6,480, which is the largest sum collected in any one year, making the total collected under these headings to the 31st March last £121,895. This requirement to make reparation undoubtedly has a most salutary effect and brings home to the offender in a realistic way the implications of his wrongdoing. An essential feature of probation is that a person who has fallen from grace by preying upon his fellows or committing a social wrong shall reinstate his character by his own efforts. Probation is by no means tantamount to letting an offender off. Section 10 of the Act prescribes a long list of exacting restrictions on liberty, and to these may be added special conditions at the discretion of the Court. Experience has shown that more can be accomplished in the development of character by the exercise of socializing influences through the careful supervision of an offender in the community where he is required to face up to the everyday social and economic impacts than in the artificial atmosphere of an institution, no matter how well it may be conducted. There is also another important human consideration —i.e., probation avoids the necessity of severing domestic ties, which, besides making the problem of rehabilitation less difficult, saves considerable hardship to the innocent members of the offender's family. The late Lord Hewart, in referring to the consideration of alternatives to imprisonment, stated that "it does not in the smallest degree involve any disparagement of the functions or results of imprisonment in its proper sphere. The question rather is whether that sphere may not be deliberately and carefully limited and curtailed by the adoption of other methods in suitable circumstances and in cases of the right kind." A modern development showing an example of the latter circumstances is illustrated by the number of cases dealt with under the Summary Penalties Act. 1939. Prior to the passing of •this enactment one had the spectacle of a considerable number of persons being committed to prison not because of the intrinsic gravity of the offence in which they were involved, but for non-payment of fines. Under the Summary Penalties Act the Court may place an offender under the care of a Probation Officer, who is empowered to permit him to pay the fine by instalments commensurate with his earning and saving capacity. Although probation has been part of the penal plan in New Zealand for over sixty years, it is interesting to note that it has not yet been adopted in several of the Australian States. During the year the Attorney-General for New South Wales, the Hon. C. E. Martin, visited the Dominion, and one of the matters which was the subject of his inquiry was probation. After a careful investigation of the scheme he expressed himself as being favourably impressed, and on returning to Australia reported that "he had been inspired by New Zealand's excellent probation scheme." Later in the year a visit was paid by the Deputy Inspector-General of Prisons for Victoria, who also thoroughly investigated our probation system, and reported to the Victorian Government recommending the adoption of a similar scheme.

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Parole This group comprises persons released on licence after serving a term of imprisonment or Borstal detention, as distinct from those admitted in the first instance to probation by the Courts. The statistics show that 506 persons were released on probation during the year on the recommendation of the Prisons Board. Sixteen parolees were recommitted for breaches of their licence, and 28, including 11 habitual criminals, had their licence cancelled for further offences. Probationary after-care is simply a continuation of the reclamative process and may be regarded as an integral part of the penal plan. Too much emphasis cannot be given to supervision during the difficult transition period when a man leaves an institution and enters the world again, and unless the parolee is carefully guided during the hazardous period when he first emerges from prison the likelihood of a lapse into crime is much greater. The effectiveness of the method of supervision and after-care may be judged from the fact that during the five years ended 31st December last, 1,785 persons (excluding habitual criminals) were released on probation and during that period 185, or 10-3 per cent., were returned to prison for failing to - comply with the conditions of their licence or for other offences whilst on licence, and only 24-7 per cent, have again been convicted subsequent to discharge. Appreciation I desire to place on record the Department's appreciation of the helpful co-operation of the Magistrates who have taken up again the chairmanship of the voluntary Probation Committees. During the war period, due to the members of Committees being engaged on various activities connected with the war effort, the Committees to a large extent ceased to function. Fortunately, during this period the finding of employment for probationers presented little difficulty on account of the helpful co-operation of Placement Officers. During the past year the Probation Officers in the principal centres have revived their associate Committees, and these are again taking an enthusiastic interest in the well-being of probationers. Without the loyal co-operation of Probation Officers generally, for which I desire to express my gratitude, the work could not be carried out effectively. I desire also to express the thanks of the Department to the Salvation Army, principally to the women officers in that organization who function as Probation Officers in several towns. To the other after-care organizations, particularly the Women's Borstal Association, the various Prisoners' Aid Societies, and the Christchurch Rehabilitation Committee, grateful appreciation of help is extended. B. L. Dallard, Chief Probation Officer. REPORTS OF DISTRICT PROBATION OFFICERS Mr. C. E. Maxted, District Probation Officer, Auckland On Ist January, 1946, there were 215 on the register. During the year 248 were admitted to probation by the Courts and 110 were received on transfer from other districts. These figures give a total of 573 probationers dealt with during the year 1946. Of that number, 109 completed the probationary term, 163 were transfered to other districts, 1 died, 3 were committed to mental hospitals, 33 left the Dominion, and 2 were discharged by the Prisons Board. Thirty probationers were brought before the Court for a breach of the terms of their probationary licence, 3 of whom were also dealt with on the original charge and did not revert to probation. A total of 59 probationers appeared before the Courts for further offences committed after admission to probation, 37 of whom did not revert to probation. These figures give a total of 351 to be

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deducted from the total number dealt with, which left 222 on the register at 31st December, 1946. Those who committed a breach of their probationary licence were 15-5 per cent, of the total number dealt with, which is slightly more than for the previous year. Of the total number of those who came before the Courts as failing to respond to probation, 25 per cent, were Maoris, again proving themselves less responsive to lenient treatment. The majority of probationers, however, are reporting well and showing their appreciation of the leniency extended to them in the form of probation, but there are always some who are, unfortunately, destined for a criminal career. It seems that this is inevitable. Included in this year's statistics are 58 individuals who were admitted to probation for ship-desertion. Twenty-five left New Zealand for overseas as members of ships' crews and 13 were transferred to other districts. Five of them appeared before Courts on further charges after admission to probation, and 1 was sentenced to a term of imprisonment on the original charge. At the end of the year there were still 19 shipdeserters on the register. For the period Ist April, 1946, to 31st March, 1947, the sum of £1,130 Is. 4d. was collected for restitution and £268 Is. 2d. for costs of prosecutions, making a total of £1,398 2s. 6d. Again this year probationers have met their financial obligations regularly and well. The Summary Penalties Act has been used to the fullest extent during the year and on only one occasion was it necessary to recommend the issue of a committal warrant for the non-payment of a fine. The numbers dealt with in both the adjourned cases and Summary Penalties Act are not included in the statistics given at the commencement of this report. Probationers on Release from Prisons and Borstal Institutions.—There were 89 probationers in this class on Ist January, 1946. One hundred and sixty-one were received on release from the various institutions and 36 were received on transfer from other districts, making a total of 286 dealt with during the period. Of that number, 92 completed the probationary term, 52 were transferred to other districts, 2 were discharged by the Prisons Board, 1 died, and 2 left New Zealand. Fifty-three probationers came before the Court for other offences, and, of these, 47 received [further terms of imprisonment and did not revert to probation either through their probationary licences being cancelled or on account of the sentence being in excess of the probationary term. The remaining 6 reverted to probation. Five of the offenders who appeared before the Court again were habitual criminals. The number remaining on the register at the close of 1946 was 90. The percentage of defaulters was 18-5 per cent., being 1-5 per cent, less than for the previous year. The average monthly number on the register was 102. Maoris in this class again showed a poor response by accounting for 21 per cent, of the total defaulters. The finding of suitable employment for probationers is, happily, still the least of the Probation Officer's worries, and the continued help received in this direction from the National Employment Service and the Vocational Guidance Centre is greatly appreciated. The Courts are making fuller use of the Offenders Probation Act each year, as is shown by the continued steady rise in the number admitted to probation, and this has a very great influence on the attitude of the general public towards probationers. It is pleasing to see employers becoming more understanding and willing to help those who have had the unfortunate experience of appearing before Court. At one time an employer would not entertain the idea of employing a person on probation, no matter what the offence might have been, but to-day quite a number of business men approach the Probation Officer either to re-employ an old servant or to engage a new employee. Persons released on licence experience the greatest difficulty in securing suitable accommodation in Auckland, and it is most disturbing to see a man's good resolutions so suddenly frustrated through not being able to find somewhere to live. The need for a reasonably cheap and well-run non-denominational hostel is a very pressing need in this city.

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It is unfortunate but true that associations made in prison are in some instances responsible for further lapses into crime, and for that reason probation is of particular value. Probation teaches discipline, as each probationer is required to report at regular stated times. Harmful associations are broken by the imposition of special conditions regarding companions, and thrift is not only encouraged but in many cases insisted on by the opening of joint banking accounts in the names of the Probation Officer and the probationer. Many youths find it difficult to settle down to one type of employment for any length of time, and in cases special conditions regarding employment are imposed. These special conditions all have a stabilizing effect and inculcate many of the necessary ingredients of good citizenship which have been missed in their upbringing. While a general review of crime scarcely comes within the scope of this report, certain aspects of it as closely allied to probation should be mentioned. The drift of Maoris to the city continues, and while the numbers of Maoris on probation remains more or less static, they still constitute an alarmingly high proportion of those appearing before the Courts. They are responsible for a large portion of the offences of theft and assaults. In the latter offence they are being associated with Natives from Rarotonga, Samoa, and Niue Islands. A large number of these islanders have settled in Auckland over the past year or so and a large number are finding themselves before the Court for offences associated with drunkenness and assault. In conclusion, I again wish to place on record my thanks for the assistance received from the Rev. D. Caswell, of the City Mission ; the Rev. George Moreton, Secretary of the Discharged Prisoners' Aid Society; the Rev. Dr. Delargey and Mr. M. Curran, of the Catholic Youth Centre ; officers of the Salvation Army ; members of the Police Force in Auckland ; and also police officers in other parts of the Auckland province. I wish to record my appreciation of the kindly and understanding treatment accorded me by Judges and Magistrates. Mr. W. H. Darby, District Probation Officer, Christchurch The period under review has been what might be termed a smooth-running year of work; there has been very little fluctuation one way or the other in the numbers of persons dealt with during this and the previous year, and in this connection I do not anticipate any great increase during the coming year. Steady employment for all who are able and willing to work is no doubt one of the reasons why things are going along so smoothly, and it is to be hoped that this state of affairs will continue. On the whole, the majority of probationers have responded very well and have appreciated the benefits of probation, but, as in the past, a few disregard their responsibilities and disappear. A few have also committed fresh offences, but when the large number dealt with duriiig the past twenty years is taken into consideration the percentage of failures is very small. The Courts have made the fullest use of our services during the year, and the results of our inquiries and recommendations have no doubt materially assisted them in coming to their decisions. I have pleasure in reporting that the Christchurch Discharged Prisoners' Rehabilitation Society has had a successful year of work; the various members are most enthusiastic and during the year have had meetings monthly and have paid monthly visits to the prison. The members have made every effort to obtain jobs for all and have endeavoured in every case to institute a " follow-up " procedure ; every possible avenue has been explored in an effort to obtain the most suitable employment, and the various members have paid particular attention to the present important problem of the deserting seaman. At the beginning of the year we had 67 on the offenders' probation register, 57 were admitted to probation, and 30 were transferred from other districts, making a total dealt with of 154, 44 were transferred to other districts, 5 joined the J Force, 1 died, 10 were convicted on fresh charges and for breach of probation, 4 disappeared

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completely, and 17 satisfactorily completed the term of probation, leaving 73 on the register at the end of the year. The restitution collected amounted to £247 10s. 6d. and the costs to £35 16s. 2d. for the period. Under the Crimes Act we had 30 reporting at the beginning of the year, 23 were transferred in, and 46 were released from Borstals and prisons, making a total of 99 dealt with ; 23 were transferred out; 3 disappeared, 9 were sentenced on fresh charges, 3 joined the J Force, 2 were gazetted for arrest and have not yet been located, while 27 completed their terms, leaving a total of 32 on the register at 31st December, 1946. Mr. Aitken's efforts have again contributed largely to the success of our work, and I am also indebted to the Court officials, the officers of the National Service Department, and to the members of the Prisoners' Rehabilitation Society for their assistance during the year. Mr. E. F. Mosley, District Probation Officer, Dunedin Probationers released under the Offenders Probation Act, 1920.—At the commencement of the period there were 43 probationers on the register, since when 41 have been released on probation by local Courts and 12 have been received on transfer from other districts, making a total of 96 dealt with during the year. Of these, 26 were discharged after completion of their term, 22 were transferred to other districts, 4 were imprisoned after committing further offences, 2 absconded, and 1 was discharged by the Prisons Board, leaving a balance of 41 on the register. Restitution moneys collected totalled £197 7s. and costs of prosecution £2O. The figures generally show a decrease over the previous year. This is doubtless due to the action of a new Magistrate in imprisoning for certain offences a considerable number of offenders who in many cases would previously have been released on probation. Releases from Borstal Institutions and Prisons. —In this category 11 were reporting at the beginning of the year, since when 22 have been released from institutions and 7 received on transfer from other districts, making a total of 40 dealt with in the year. Of these, 9 were discharged in the ordinary way, 6 were transferred, 2 committed offences and were sentenced to a further term of imprisonment, and 3 went overseas in the J Force, leaving 20 on the register. In addition to the above, several young offenders are reporting and making payments by instalments for restitution under the provisions of the Summary Penalties Act, 1939. During the period a psychiatrist has very kindly offered his services gratis, and the opportunity has been taken to utilize his diagnosis and treatment whenever it has been thought desirable. General Comment.—Work is still plentiful, and it is noticeable that the more irresponsible probationers take advantage of this to change their employment frequently without justification. Further, the ratio of offenders for dishonesty is as high as ever, in spite of the favourable economic conditions. This state of affairs would seem to reflect what is no doubt an obvious and accentuated condition in our present era — namely, the disinclination to practice the virtue of self-denial. Mr. R. Watt, District Probation Officer, Wellington Probationers released under the Offenders Probation Act, 1920.—The year commenced with 165 reporting under this heading. During the year 183 were released by the Courts and, together with 53 received on transfer, the total dealt with was 401. One hundred were discharged, 80 were transferred to other districts, 4 are still on active service overseas, 9 left the Dominion, 1 died, 2 were dealt with on original charges, 4 absconded, and 9 were imprisoned for subsequent offences, leaving 192 reporting at the end of the period.

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The total sum of £1,247 3s. sd. (costs, £207 lis. 3d.) paid by probationers by way of restitution may be regarded as a highly satisfactory response. Apart from increased earning-power, the obligation to make reparation has been widely recognized. During the year there have been experienced conditions peculiar to post-war periods, and, generally, one felt that many young offenders, having reached adolescence during the war years, were ill-equipped to cope with the business of living as they found it. Consequently, the necessity for close personal contact, patience, and much tolerance has been most evident. On the whole, probationers have responded to advice and encouragement, and, while there have been failures and disappointments, the greater number of those discharged seemed to have profited by their experience and reestablished themselves largely by their own effort. Probationers released from Prisons and Borstals. —The yeai; commenced with 48 reporting under this heading, 80 were received from various institutions during the year, and 21 were received on transfer, making a total of 149. Of that number, 50 were discharged, 38 were transferred to other districts, 2 are on active service, 1 left the country, 2 licences were cancelled, and 13 were imprisoned for other offences, leaving 43 reporting at the end of the period. In the main, these probationers proved responsive and took full advantage of existing opportunities to establish themselves once again. Those who failed, having committed other offences, were for the most part of the recidivist type, who represent a problem in any community. General. —Two features of the year's work seem worthy of mention. One problem concerned youthful types, whose lack of values and, unfortunately in some cases, industry, general restraint, and a disregard for authority were difficult to cope with. Eventually, in some cases, where advice and encouragement failed after being well tried, institutional restraint seemed to be the only solution. An increasing problem was the large number of Maori offenders dealt with, for the most part youthful. In this connection the assistance and co-operation of Maori Welfare Officers will be a welcome feature in future, when the aim will be to establish offenders among their own people if at all possible. As in recent years, there was no lack of suitable employment, and the good offices of the National Employment Service and the Rehabilitation Department have been fully appreciated. During the year the various sources of advice and assistance to which all Probation Officers are only too glad to turn responded most willingly and contributed much that was helpful and constructive. Miss H. Brown, who was associated with this offiee for many years, retired during the year. It is desired to place on record an appreciation of her intense loyalty, judgment, and unselfish interest that characterized her long association with probation work. In conclusion, the continuance of helpful understanding on the part of Judges of the Supreme Court and Magistrates and assistance of Court and police officials is gratefully acknowledged. Mr. H. Mathew, Probation Officer, Invercargill The following particulars regarding the work carried on during 1946 are submitted : Probationers under Offenders Probation Act, 1920. —On Ist January, 1946, there were 10 probationers on the register. During the year 16 were admitted to probation by the local Court —14 on charges of theft, 1 of assault, and 1 of obscene exposure. Inward transfers from other districts totalled 2, whilst outward transfers were 3. Ten probationers completed their probationary periods during the year. One probationer committed an offence whilst on probation and was sentenced to one year's Borstal detention, and 2 others committing offences were sentenced to prison. Twelve probationers remain on the register as at 31st December, 1946. All these are reporting regularly and, with the exception of one who is recovering from a prolonged illness, are employed locally.

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Probationers under the Crimes Amendment Act, 1910, and Prevention of Crime (Borstal Institution Establishment) Act, 1924. —On Ist January, 1946, there was 1 probationer on the register. To this number 5 were added on release from the local Borstal institution. There were 5 inward and 5 outward transfers, whilst 2 probationers committed further offences. One completed his probationary period during the year. Three remain on the register as at 31st December, 1946. All are in suitable employment and are reporting regularly. General. —On the whole, probationers have responded well to the leniency extended to them by the Courts. Employment has been plentiful, and this has no doubt had a beneficial effect. During the year the Probation Officer has been called upon to write thirty-three reports for the Supreme and Magistrate's Courts, many of the reports calling for extensive investigation and careful evaluation of the information obtained. Both His Honour the Judge and the resident Magistrate have expressed their appreciation of the reports provided in cases which have been dealt with by them. Costs of prosecution moneys collected during the financial year ended 31st March, 1947, amounted to £8 10s. lOd. and restitution money to £lO2 4s. 3d., making a total of £llO 15s. Id. Mr. A. A. Douglas, Probation Officer, Napier At the beginning of the year there were 10 probationers on the register, 18 were admitted to probation by the Court, 17 were received on transfer from other districts, 27 were transferred to other districts, 3 completed their term, and 1 was sentenced to two years' imprisonment, leaving 14 on the register at the end of the year. With the exception of 1 probationer transferred to this district from Palmerston North who was not reported, all probationers are in steady employment and apparently doing well. Restitution moneys amounting to £45 15s. 6d. were disbursed during the year. Costs of prosecution, amounting to £2 lis., were paid into the Public Account. Crimes Amendment Act.—There were 5 probationers on the list at the commencement of the year, 21 were received from other districts, 5 were resentenced (3 to Borstal and 2 to hard labour), 10 were transferred to other districts, and 5 completed their term, leaving 6 on the register at the end of the year. All probationers are carrying out their terms in a satisfactory manner. Mr. D. C. Pedersen, Probation Officer, Nelson During the past year some 13 persons were admitted to probation from the Courts in Nelson and 36 came under my control for varying periods, with an average of about 14 on the books each month. Their conduct generally has been satisfactory and the system of probation in most cases has had a good effect on them, in that they have made genuine efforts to lead a decent life and in some cases become sufficiently interested in their future welfare as to open Post Office Savings-bank accounts and to save money regularly. Several persons released under the Crimes Amendment Act have not proved satisfactory and have relapsed into their life of crime, and it would appear that these are not worthy of the leniency extended to them, even after they have been found good positions and board. As most probationers are very restless and travel about the country considerably, some consideration should be given to the fact that restitution moneys due to be paid by them could, in many cases, be more easily collected in their home town before permission is granted to them to travel, as they often have no position to go to but are only trying their luck. Restitution moneys collected and paid out have amounted to £B7 Is. sd. My thanks are due to the Mayor of Nelson and to the Salvation Army, who have given me every assistance when I have approached them, even to the extent of monetary donations and guarantees of board and lodgings.

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Mr. J. Dow, Probation Officer", New Plymouth Offenders Probation Act, 1920.—There were 14 probationers on the register at the beginning of the year, 8 were received from the Courts, and 17 were received on transfer from other districts, making a total of 39 probationers dealt with. Of this number, 12 completed their period of probation satisfactorily, 15 were transferred to other districts, and 1 was sent to a Borstal for offences committed while on probation, leaving 11 on the register at the end of the year. The conduct of the probationers, with one exception, has been very good. The sum of £lO3 10s. lOd. towards restitution and £6 6s. towards costs of prosecution has been collected. Crimes Amendment Act, 1920, and, Prevention of Crimes Act, 1924.—There were 4 probationers on the register at the beginning of the year and 10 were received from other districts, making a total of 14 probationers dealth with. Of this number, 3 completed their period of probation, 1 had his sentence remitted by the military authorities, 2 were transferred to other districts, and 5 committed offences and were returned to prison, leaving 3 on the register at the end of the year. Mr. A. McLeod, Probation Officer, Rotorua The following particulars regarding probation work in this district during the year ended 31st December, 1946, is submitted : Number of probationers registered as at Ist January, 1946 .. .. 15 Number received from the local Court .. .. .. .. 13 Number received on transfer from other districts .. .. .. 18 46 Number transferred to other districts .. .. .. ..' 12 Number sent to Borstal for other offences .. .. .. 1 Number sent to prison for other offences .. .. .. .. 3 Number completed term satisfactorily .. ... .. .. 13 29 Number remaining on register as at 31st December, 1946 .. .. 17 The amount of restitution money collected during the year, £96 7s. 3d. The amount ordered to be collected from individual offenders in costs of prosecution and restitution during the year was £74 2s. lid. Under the Crimes Amendment Act:— On register as at Ist January, 1946 .. .. .. .. 9 Received on transfer from other districts .. .. .. .. 13 22 Transferred to other districts .. .. .. .. .. 12 Sentenced on other offences .. .. .. .. .. 1 Term under supervision completed .. .. .. .. 1 -*■ 14 Remaining on register at 31st December, 1946 .. .. .. 8 Restitution has been easy to collect in the majority of cases and the conduct and industry of the most of the probationers has been good. All }iave been fully employed most of the year and can show a certain amount of money banked to their credit. The thanks of the Department are due to the district officers of the Police Department for their valued assistance during the year. Mr. R. Gr. Sampson 1 , Probation Officer, Timaru Offenders Probation Act. —Under the Offenders Probation Act, 13 offenders were on the register at the beginning of the year. During the year 4 were added, all being first time on the register. 2—H 20p

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The total on the register at the dose of the year was 11. Included in this total are 4 female probationers, 3 of whom are married. Six completed their periods of probation satisfactorily. . Crimes Amendment Act.-~At the commencement of the year 3 probationers were on the register. During the year 2 completed their terms, leaving only lon the register ■ at, the end of . the year. The amount of restitution money collected during the year ended 31st March, 1947, amounted to"£6 lis. 6d., as against £64 4s. Id. for the previous year. At the present time there are no outstanding amounts.' I am very pleased to state that all probationers are making every effort to rehabiliate themselves as good citizens. At the present time all are in full-time employment. ■ I wish to express my appreciation of the assistance rendered by the Child Welfare Officer and the Court staff for the help rendered during the past year. Mr. P. S. Watters, Probation Officer, Wanganui Offenders Probation Act. —At the commencement of the year there were 22 probationers on the register. During the year 18 were received from local Courts and 16 were received from other districts, making a total of 34. Ten completed their terms of probation and were discharged, 1 received his discharge from probation through the Prisons Board, 24 were transferred to other districts, arid 3 were sentenced to terms of imprisonment for further offences and, having completed their sentences, they are still \ reporting as probationers. This leaves a total of 21 on the register. The conduct in general of the probationers has been good during the year, although a few had warnings ' in regard to frequenting hotels. It is pleasing to know that all the probationers have been v in constant employment throughout the year and earning good wages. The sum 1 of £B9 9s. lOd. has been received by way of restitution and Court costs. During the year, members of the Justices Association formed a Committee with the view to assisting probationers to rehabilitate themselves. Offenders released on Licence from Prisons and Borstals. —At the commencement there were 10 probationers on the register arid 21 were received during the year. Of these, 8' were transferred toi other districts, 2 were returned to prison, 2 returned to Borstal for further offences, and 5 completed their terms on licence and were discharged, leaving a total of 14 on the register. The 4 who' were returned to prison and Borstal were of the problem type who, through lack of moral sense, have become irresponsible arid unstable, having no respect for other people's property. The conduct of the remainder on ,the whole has been good. Major H. Gr. Rogers, Probation Officer for Women, Christchurch The number' of probationers on the register at the beginning of the year was 39. -During the year 23 were admitted to probation from Christchurch Courts, and 4 received on transfer from other districts, making a total of 66 dealt' with. Of this number, 14 finalized their terms of probation satisfactorily, 16 were transferred to other districts, 2 defaulters have been sentenced to Borstal, 1 to prison, and 1 probationer died, leaving 32 On the register at the end of the year. :: Grimes Amendment Act. —There were no probationers on this list at the beginning of the year. Three were received from institutions during the year, but lof these had to be dealt with and was returned to prison for a breach of probation. Restitution riioneys collected amounted to '£76 os. 2d. The majority of probationers have kept in steady employment, reported regularly, and in every way availed themselves of the opportunity afforded them of proving that they can be good citizens. I desire to express my grateful appreciation to the Judges of the Supreme Court, the Magistrates,- the Court officials, the Police Department, and Superintendent and staff of Addington Reformatory for their courtesy and co-operation.

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Major J. M. Hanjstaford, Probation Officer for Women, Dunedin The number of probationers on the register at the beginning of the year was 23. During the year 19 were received from the Courts and were placed on probation and 3 were received on transfer from other districts, making a total of 45 dealt with. There was also 1 received on licence from Addington, making the total 46 dealt with. Of this number, 19 have finalized their terms of probation satisfactorily and 5 have been transferred to other districts, leaving a total of 22 on the register. It is pleasing to note that the majority of the probationers appreciate the opportunity afforded them to prove themselves and are making good, most of them being in constant employment. The total amount of restitution collected during the twelve months ended the 31st March, 1947, amounted to the sum of £73 Is. 4d. I would desire to express my thanks and appreciation to the Magistrates, the Court officials, and the Police Department, also the men's Probation Officer, Mr. Mosley, for their courtesy and assistance from time to time. Miss E. H. Merrin, Probation Officer for Women, Wellington The following statistics covering the year ended 31st December, 1946, are submitted: — Offenders Probation Act — Probationers reporting at Ist January, 1946 .. .. .. 35 Probationers received from Courts .. .. .. .. 23 Probationers transferred from other districts .. .. .. 21 79 Probationers completed probation .. .. .. .. 26 Probationers transferred to other districts .. .. .. 14 Probationers committed fresh offences .. .. .. .. 3 Probationers left the Dominion without consent .. .. .. 1 Probationers left Dominion with consent .. .. .. 1 45 Probationers reporting at 31st December, 1946 .. .. .. 34 Crimes Amendment Act — Probationers reporting at 31st January, 1946 .. .. .. 2 Probationers received from institutions .. .. .. 2 4 Probationers completed period of probation .. .. .. 2 Probationers absconded .. .. .. .. 1 3 Probationers reporting at 31st December, 1946 .. .. .. 1 The amount of restitution received during the year, Ist April, 1946, to 31st March, 1947, amounted to £65 3s. and costs of prosecution £3 35., making a total of £6B 6s. All probationers were in employment at the end of the year, the majority of them being employed as waitresses and domestics. Restitution has been paid regularly by the single girls, but I am finding it extremely difficult to receive payments from married women, especially those with young families. My thanks are due to the Honorary Justices' Association, Maori welfare authorities, Salvation Army, and Court and Police officials for their courtesy and help throughout the year. 3—H 208

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STATISTICS OFFENDERS PROBATION ACT, 1920 Ages and Terms of Probation of the Offenders admitted to Probation during the Year, 1946

Summary of Cases dealt with during the Year, 1946

Breaches op Conditions of Release committed during 1946 Failed to report, &c. .. .. .. .. .. .. 84 Committed further offences .. .. .. .. .. .. 151 Absconded (still untraced) .. .. .. .. .. 15 Total .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 250 Costs of Prosecution and Restitution Moneys collected during the Year ended 31st March, 1947 £ s. d. Amount of costs of prosecution collected by Probation Officers .. 732 13 11 Amount of restitution moneys collected .. .. .. 5,748 3 11 Total .. .. .. .. .. ..£6,480 17 10

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Age, in Years. Six Months or under. One Year. Eighteen Months. Two Years. Three Years. Four Years. Five Years. Total. Under 20 years of age .. 10 129 35 99 15 1 289 20 and under 25 18 141 38 66 14 1 278 25 „ 30 11 64 9 36 5 1 126 30 „ 40 6 63 10 34 12 125 40 „ 50 4 29 3 20 4 1 61 50 „ 60 1 10 2 9 3 25 60 „ 70 7 4 1 12 70 and over 2 1 3 Totals 50 445 97 269 54 3 1 919

— Admitted to Probation. Deferred Sentence. Total. Number reporting on 1st January, 1946 1,298 61 1,359 Admitted to probation during the year 919 73 992 Resumed probation—previously struck off 3 1 4 Totals 2,220 135 2,355 Completed probation during the year 745 82 827 Deceased 6 6 Discharged by Prison Board 11 11 Left the Dominion 90 1 91 Absconded and not traced (term expired) 11 11 Resentenced on the original charge 34 34 Committed further offences 57 " 2 59 Totals .. .. .. *. Number reporting on 31st December, 1946 954 85 1,039 1,266 50 1,316

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Offences for which Offenders received the Benefits of the Probation Act during the Year ended 31st December, 1946

Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, not given; printing (783 copies), £27 10s.

Price 6d.]

By Authority: E. V. Paul, Government Printer, Wellington.—l 947.

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Offence. Admitted to Probation. Deferred Sentence. Total. Theft 495 46 541 Ship-desertion 68 68 Breaking, entering, and theft 58 58 False pretences and fraud 52 " 3 55 Unlawful conversion of motor-vehicles 46 2 48 Common assault 26 2 28 Vagrancy 23 23 Trespassing 21 2 23 Receiving stolen property 21 21 Indecent assault 18 18 Mischief and wilful damage 6 11 17 Carnal knowledge and attempted carnal knowledge 15 15 Indecent exposure 12 1 13 Forgery and uttering 10 1 11 Obscene and indecent language 8 8 False statements and false declarations 5 5 Selling liquor without a licence 5 5 Reckless driving .. .. 4 4 Bigamy 3 1 4 Abandoning a child 3 3 Unlawfully wearing uniform 3 Unlawfully carrying firearms 3 Stowing away on ships 1 2 3 Breach of Bankruptcy Act cy £ 2 Breach of probation (Crimes Amendment Act) l 1 2 Attempted suicide l 1 Arson 1 Bookmaking l I Breach of Chattels Act l 1 Breach of maintenance order l 1 Buggery l 1 Drunkenness l 1 Failing to stop after accident l 1 Permitting use of instrument to procure miscarriage 1 1 Threatening by night l 1 -Gambling 1 1 Totals 919 73 992