New Zealand Apologies for Intrusive Internal Searches of Women Prisoners

The Department of Corrections has issued an apology after the women prisoners were wrongfully given intrusive, internal searches on suspicion for concealing contraband.

A draft report by the Independent Corrections Inspectorate found internal searches were common at Auckland women's prison between 2006 and 2016. The report found that no contraband was found during the searches which were not allowed under the Corrections Act. Rachel Leota, the Department of Corrections National Commissioner said they were trying to contact the former prisoners. "I deeply regret that this practise was ever able to occur and over such a long period of time. I apologize unreservedly for the searches that were carried out, and for any distress that this has caused to the women."

Rachel acknowledged that the searches were 'intrusive' and 'potentially traumatizing' for the women. "While we can't undo the distress they may have suffered at the time or subsequently, its critical that we try to put things right."

Reports say the searches were inconsistent with prison policies at the Auckland Region Women's Corrections Facility. A former prisoner who made the complaint was given a compensation and an apology in 2017. Since then 15 women have been compensated with $25,000. The Department of Corrections have yet to contact 14 more women.