Ex-cop urges more chances for young offenders

A former police officer has called for greater use of supervised rehabilitation for young people accused of minor offences, arguing that convictions can create long-term barriers to work, travel and future opportunity.

Jonathan Best, who served with the force for 36 years, spoke at the St Andrew Ideas Forum on Thursday night, where he proposed giving young offenders opportunities to avoid conviction through rehabilitation and supervision.

Best gave the scenario of a young person who may be involved in an altercation with another person. He proposed returning the person home under supervision and with rules to follow if they wanted to avoid prison time.