Legislative changes to be introduced on the issuing of police cautions

The Minister for Justice, Nigel Feetham, has given notice of an amendment to the Prison Amendment Bill 2026, which would amend the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act.

Under the proposed change, where an adult admits to a specified offence, police would not be able to issue a caution unless there are exceptional circumstances, and unless the Director of Public Prosecutions gives consent.

A senior police officer, not below the rank of Superintendent, could argue exceptional circumstances.