How violent crims could get greater chance of freedom

An expanded court scheme could soon increase the chances of bail for some of Victoria’s most violent accused criminals awaiting trial for serious offending.

Some of Victoria’s most violent accused criminals could be freed on bail under the expansion of a long-running court program.

Some of Victoria’s most violent accused criminals are set to be thrown a stay-out-of-jail card under the expansion of a long-running court program.

Under the pilot scheme, thousands more accused will have an increased chance at being bailed while awaiting trial for serious offending.

And some could have the chance to avoid prison altogether if they can successfully complete the Court Integrated Services Program (CISP) during a sentence deferral.

The program has been running in Victoria’s magistrates courts since 2006, but for the first time, from Monday, will be trialled in the County Court, making it available to accused criminals facing more-serious charges. They include serious violent crimes, fraud and deception offences and burglaries.

Anyone accused of sexual offending will be ineligible for the scheme.

The 18-month pilot program is expected to cost about $6.1m.

Accused persons will undergo a risk assessment and screening process.

If accepted, they would be engaged with a CISP case manager tasked with co-ordinating treatment, undertaking regular case management, reviewing progress and providing written reports to the court.

Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes said the program did not change the eligibility requirements for bail. Picture: AAP

Concerns have been raised, however, a three-year study of the program by the University of Melbourne found it significantly reduced the risk of reoffending.

The study found the program also increased compliance with community correction orders, reduced harm to the community and delivered cost savings through reduced prison time for offenders.

Crime Victims Support Association president Noel McNamara said the program was an example of money being thrown at offenders while victims were ignored.

“It’s disgusting, completely wrong and ridiculous. And really something has to be done,’’ Mr McNamara said.

Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes said the program did not change the eligibility requirements for bail; rather, it would address the causes of offending behaviour.

“The program adopts a tough, evidence-based screening and assessment process to determine an individual’s risk of reoffending, allowing courts to promote rehabilitation, address the root causes of crime and reduce costs associated with remand,” she said.

Opposition spokesman Edward O’Donohue said the program posed a risk to community safety.

“With several recent horrific crimes allegedly committed by those awaiting trial while remaining in the community, now more than ever is the time to take a conservative approach to risk and community safety,” Mr O’Donohue said.

To be eligible, the accused must be experiencing one or more of a range of factors including mental health issues, disability, substance abuse issues or family violence.

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