This is about name suppression in New Zealand.  In case you haven’t heard a District Court Judge has ordered permanent name suppression for a prominent Manawatu man who had 300,000 pornographic images (including child pornography) on his computer.

The judge said:

“The punitive consequences are more extensive for you than for others, particularly in light of your position, your achievements and the consequential outcome.”

and that:

“…publication of the man’s identity was not required because none of the thousands of children pictured were New Zealanders.”

The Manawatu Standard and even David Farrar (Kiwiblog) have slammed the decision.

And, unsurprisingly, Cam Slater (aka Whale Oil Beef Hooked) has come out swinging.  He is, after all on a personal crusade against name suppression and has been willing to risk his freedom by using the methods he’s used.

But Can oversteps the mark when he takes personal pot shots at the judge.

“… this is NOT the first time that Judge Grant Fraser has meddled with the intent of the law. A quick Google reveals a crim hugging, liberal menace to the people of the Manawatu.”

Come on Cam.  You must know that nobody is that stupid… not even a judge!  Clearly Judge Fraser is on your side.  He knows that giving name suppression in this case must force the Government’s hand and new law on name suppression will be rushed through parliament – possibly even before you can get yourself in yet more trouble!  (OK – That’s unlikely, but soon nonetheless.)