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An analysis of the legal mandate and role of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the implementation of restorative justice in South Africa

Smit, Jeanette
June 4, 2015

Source: (2004) Paper presented at “New Frontiers in Restorative Justice: Advancing Theory and Practice”, Centre for Justice and Peace Development, Massey University at Albany, New Zealand, 2-5 December.

The objective of the paper is to investigate the legal mandate for the South African Police Service in the implementation of restorative justice within South Africa, as the South African Police Service Act does not make provision for the members of the police to become actively involved in restorative justice.

The study has three aims: evaluating the legal mandate of the South African Police Service (SAPS) to implement restorative justice; determining the training, if any, that members of the SAPS receive in terms of restorative justice; evaluating the joint efforts of non-governmental organizations (NGO’s) and the SAPS in implementing restorative justice.

The study will conclude with possible recommendations on legislative interventions and recommendations to improve police training in implementing restorative justice in South Africa. Abstract courtesy of the Centre for Justice and Peace Development, Massey University, http://justpeace.massey.ac.nz.

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AbstractConceptual IssuesCourtsPolicePolicyPost-Conflict ReconciliationRJ in SchoolsRJ OfficeStatutes and LegislationTeachers and Students
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