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Gang Insignia Bill
Should Wanganui introduce a local bill that outlaws the wearing of gang insignia in public places?
In 2006 the Council proposed a by-law to prohibit the wearing of gang insignia in public places, including the central business district, parks and other recreational areas. This followed a number of violent gang confrontations, in part fuelled by the wearing of gang patches. The purpose of the by-law is to minimise the intimidation of citizens and the likelihood of gang confrontations. It is also to ensure that gang members do not feel welcome in Wanganui.
The Council, Police and legal advisers agree that a “local bill” – introduced into Parliament – is the best course to follow. A local bill is a public bill promoted by a local authority that affects only a particular locality. The local Member of Parliament, Whanganui MP Chester Borrows, has agreed to support its passage through the parliamentary process and strong parliamentary support has been indicated.
The Council wants to ensure that all citizens can enjoy, and feel safe in, public places throughout the Wanganui district. We believe that prohibiting the wearing of gang insignia in parks, on beaches and in other recreational areas, plus the central business district and suburban shopping areas, will assist the community to feel safer and less intimidated by gang members.
Gang insignia means any identifying signs or symbols displayed or worn by persons showing an affiliation with, membership of or support for a gang and includes any item of clothing to which signs or symbols are attached.
Clothing is not the only factor that makes gang members intimidating – their general behaviour is also an issue. There is an argument that wearing gang insignia allows the public to identify gang members and make informed decisions about how to act when confronted by them. Gang clothing also helps the Police to identify gang members.
Advantages of Wanganui developing a local bill on gang insignia
- Members of the public will feel safer and less intimidated by gang members in public places.
- It will address the perceived local issue and have greater powers and authority than a by-law.
- Police will be able to take direct enforcement action against those in breach to stop any perceived or real intimidation or threat to public safety.
- Criminal gangs will feel less welcome in Wanganui.
Disadvantages of Wanganui developing a local bill on gang insignia
- Enforcing the gang insignia prohibition may cause Police some additional work.
- Members of rival gangs will still recognise each other, whether or not they are wearing patches or other insignia.
- Gangs will still exist.
Police Association letter
Draft Wanganui District (Prohibition of Gang Insignia) Act 2007
Introduction || Home || Meeting Minutes
Wanganui District Council Web site || Referendum '06 || Referendum '05
