Victims only notified if consideration was given to cancel deportation

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) confirmed Bell would be deported “as soon as practicable after his release from prison”.

The Victims’ Rights Act 2002 includes notification of deportation orders to those who suffer sexual violation.

INZ acting assistant general manager Dave Campbell said victims were only notified if consideration was given to cancel or not proceed with deportation, or if the offender appealed against his or her liability for deportation to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal.

“As this has not happened in this case, no further information has been released to the victim,” he said.

The woman said she was relieved to finally have confirmation but was concerned there appeared to be gaps in the system for notifying registered victims.