Parole Board Decision

In the matter of the Corrections Act 1997

and

In the matter of an Application for Parole by Daniel John Haverland

12 October 2012

Reasons for Decision

On the 19 September 2001 in the Launceston Supreme Court the Applicant was convicted of murder.  He was sentenced to twenty three years imprisonment with a non parole period of half that time.  The Applicant became eligible to be considered for release on parole on the 5 June 2012. 

The Board has been provided with advice from the Victim’s Assistance Unit that there is a registered victim.  The victim has been given the opportunity to submit a victim’s impact statement and request a non molestation order.  The Board has taken this into consideration. 

The Board has been provided with documentation which outlines the factual circumstances of the crime and notes comments made by Justice Crawford, as he was then known, on passing sentence.

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

In particular the Board has considered the following information when assessing the application:-

1. The Applicant’s prior convictions.

2. A Pre Parole report dated the 14 May 2012 prepared by the Applicant’s probation officer.

3. An updated Pre Parole report dated 19 September 2012.

4. A Prison Episode Summary report dated 21 May 2012 prepared by the custodial officers of the Department of Justice.

5. A psychologist’s report sought by the Board.

6. The Board’s own interview with the Applicant.

The Board has considered the Applicant’s own statement that he is remorseful and has learnt from his mistakes.  He has used his time in prison to improve his education.  He has completed an anger management course. He has done various jobs in the prison working at a satisfactory level. 

He has no relevant prior convictions.

The Applicant has completed the Preparing for Change course.  He has obtained a fork lift licence.  He has done courses in Mathematics, Information Technology and Food and Safety.

The Applicant has undertaken several roles within the prison system.  He currently works as a carer.  He has been assessed as being at a low risk of re-offending.  The Applicant does not enjoy good health, having bladder and kidney problems.

 He has undertaken Section 42 releases since June 2011.  All have proceeded without incident. The Applicant has not committed any recent internal offences.

The Applicant has arranged an appointment with his General Practitioner and intends engaging in a Mental Health Plan upon release.

Given the length of time of incarceration and his lack of family support the Applicant has arranged suitable, supported accommodation upon release. He has the assistance of STAY who will provide intensive case management, PROP, who will provide intensive specialist support for up to two years, and Anglicare staff, who will provide counselling and assist the Applicant in maintaining suitable social activities.  He is hopeful of obtaining employment.  He appears to be motivated to succeed according to statements from a PROP staff member who will assist in exploring further study and employment opportunities.

Taking all matters into account it is the Board’s belief that the Applicant will be better rehabilitated outside the prison system and should be released on parole.  He is to abstain from alcohol.  He is not to enter or remain upon any licensed premises.  The Applicant is to attend counselling as recommended by his Parole Officer and as recommended in the psychologist’s report.   A report on the Applicant’s progress is sought after a six week period.  A curfew is also imposed.

Paroled from 29 October 2012 – 19 December 2023