A Government proposal for a new infringement offence for shoplifting would mean the burden of proof would fall on the suspect to prove their innocence.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says this change strikes the right 'balance' between public safety and an individual’s rights, despite concerns from experts.

Criminal lawyer Steve Cullen says these changes make sense, given the wave of shoplifting impacting the country.

"It's simply regulating people's behaviour. You have a defence of saying - no, it's not true, for example. But also, you have a defence of saying - I took all positive steps to avoid it."

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A Government proposal for a new infringement offence for shoplifting would mean the burden of proof would fall on the suspect to prove their innocence.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says this change strikes the right 'balance' between public safety and an individual’s rights, despite concerns from experts.
Criminal lawyer Steve Cullen says these changes make sense, given the wave of shoplifting impacting the country.
"It's simply regulating people's behaviour. You have a defence of saying - no, it's not true, for example. But also, you have a defence of saying - I took all positive steps to avoid it."
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

Steve Cullen: criminal lawyer on the Government's proposal for new infringement offence for shoplifting

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/48b67c42-a4a8-4d2e-a126-b35400565ecc/transcript