Testimony from jailhouse witnesses is internationally recognised as among the most dangerous evidence a court can hear. Phil Reid/Stuff Robert Lithgow, QC, says the use of jailhouse witnesses has corrupted New Zealand’s courts and justice system. ROBERT KITCHIN/Stuff Former justice minister Andrew Little, left, labelled jailhouse witnesses “abject liars”. But better now than never, right?”BRENDON O'HAGAN/Stuff Auckland University associate professor of law Scott Optican says stronger regulations are needed for jailhouse witnesses. Optican says the overwhelming approach to jailhouse witnesses until now has been to let them in, and let the jury sort out if they were honest.

Source: Stuff April 30, 2021 17:01 UTC