Parole Board Decision

In the matter of the Corrections Act 1997

and

In the matter of an Application for Parole by Michael Geoffrey Quigley

13 June 2008

Reason for Decision

On the 17 October 2007 in the Supreme Court of Tasmania the Applicant was convicted of 2 counts of armed robbery and one count of a breach of bail conditions.

The Applicant was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment with a non-parole period of 9 months.

The Applicant became eligible to be released on parole on the 21 June 2008.

In considering the application for parole the Board has taken into account the statutory criteria which it is required to do pursuant to the Corrections Act 1997.

The Board has further considered the following information when assessing the Applicant’s application for parole:

1. Comments made by Justice Evans when passing sentence including that the Applicant had taken positive steps since committing the crimes to seek counselling or treatment in relation to his drug addiction. It is also noted that the Applicant pleaded guilty to his offences.

2. Six months of a two year sentence has been suspended on the condition that the Applicant be of good behaviour for three years upon his release from prison.

3. A very comprehensive pre-parole report prepared by his probation officer dated 30 May 2008.

4. The Applicant’s prison record which can be described as good.

5. The Applicant’s expressions to the Board of his remorse and of efforts made to enter the Missiondale program. The Applicant has also placed himself on a register banning him from gaming venues

6. The Board notes the Applicant has good prospects of employment on release.

7. The Board notes that the Applicant has suitable accommodation and the support of his family.

Taking all matters into account, the Board is of the view that the Applicant now meets the statutory criteria to be granted parole and that his reintegration into the wider community will best be served by the Applicant being granted a period of parole. There will be conditions that he take up a place with the Missiondale program, if and when available, or any other drug and gambling counselling as directed by his Probation Officer. For the duration of his period of parole the Applicant must also refrain from the use of alcohol and not enter licensed premises. The usual conditions relating to remaining free from any substance abuse and submitting himself to random drug screening are included.

Paroled 24/06/2008 – 21/03/2009