News | Law and Order
16 Jan 2026 8:07
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  •   Home > News > Law and Order

    A man who spent 30 years behind bars from the age of 19, took his own life months after being released

    A man who spent 30 years behind bars from the age of 19, took his own life months after being released


    Open Justice reports Lee Rawiri Kohiti went to prison for his cousin's murder in 1995 and was released to a Hamilton facility for parolees last year.

    A Coroner's report has now found Kohiti largely kept to himself and had no visitors while he was there.

    He'd told his supervisor and probation staff he wanted to go back to prison - in the weeks before his death in late July.

    Coroner Bruce Hesketh recommends better support for long term prisoners transitioning back to society - noting several have committed suicide following their release.

    © 2026 Newstalk ZB, NZCity

     Other Law and Order News
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     15 Jan: Police say yesterday's shooting at Waitarere Beach - was preceded by a family harm incident last Friday
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     Today's News

    Rugby:
    The attention's now on how New Zealand Rugby approaches its hunt for a new CEO and All Blacks coach 7:57

    Politics:
    Former Police Commissioner Andrew Coster has been spotted at a cafe with his former boss, Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche 7:57

    Entertainment:
    Hamnet taught Paul Mescal that he cannot be his best self without his loved ones 7:53

    Motoring:
    Te Rapa Road in Hamilton is closed following a serious crash overnight 7:47

    Rugby:
    New Zealand Rugby chair David Kirk is vowing to get the right person in charge and insists there's no rush in appointing a new All Blacks coach 7:27

    Entertainment:
    Kim Kardashian's longtime best friend Allison Statter accidentally set her hair on fire 7:23

    Business:
    ???1;The construction sector's feeling optimistic, despite weak demand 7:17

    Accident and Emergency:
    One person has died and three others are injured after a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 6 near Winton, Southland 6:57

    Entertainment:
    Vanessa Williams hopes to fall in love again 6:53

    Entertainment:
    Sofia Richie Grainge is having a baby boy 6:23


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