The Justice Minister's confirmed the Government aims to send a clear message to offenders as part of the latest legislation. 

The Government recently announced 'coward punches' will be treated as a new offence, giving offenders longer sentences.

The reform makes good on a National and NZ First coalition promise.

Paul Goldsmith says the Government's hoping to disincentivise these 'unacceptable' attacks.  

"We're going to send a very strong message from Parliament to the judiciary - that we expect serious consequences for serious crime."

LISTEN ABOVE

The Justice Minister's confirmed the Government aims to send a clear message to offenders as part of the latest legislation.&nbsp;
The Government recently announced 'coward punches' will be treated as a new offence, giving offenders longer sentences.
The reform makes good on a National and NZ First coalition promise.
Paul Goldsmith says the Government's hoping to disincentivise these 'unacceptable' attacks.&nbsp;&nbsp;
"We're going to send a very strong message from Parliament to the judiciary - that we expect serious consequences for serious crime."
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Paul Goldsmith: Justice Minister on the Government making 'coward punches' a specific offense

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/eb066d95-fbb8-4bbe-87d6-b30c005d9dcb/transcript