11320 (2024). Hon Ginny Andersen to the Minister of Corrections

11320 (2024). Hon Ginny Andersen to the Minister of Corrections: What action, if any, is he talking to reduce the number of people joining a gang while in prison?

Hon Mark Mitchell: I am advised that the justice sector works together to address concerns about organised crime and gang activity. Corrections is continuing to actively work to contain the negative influence of gang members in prisons, disrupt the efforts and capabilities of gang members to organise and commit crime, and reduce the reoffending rates and harm caused by gangs. I am further advised that some of the initiatives in reducing the number of people joining gangs while in prison include: • Specialised units focused on young adults to prevent gang recruitment. • Tattoo removal to support people who are wanting to distance themselves from the gang. • The use of a comprehensive assessment tool called the Shared Accommodation Cell Risk Assessment (SACRA) to review the compatibility of prisoners before they are placed in a shared cell.