Matt Wright Transferred to Air-Conditioned Prison Unit Amid Privilege Concerns
Matt Wright, known from the Netflix series Outback Wrangler and Wild Croc Territory, has been transferred to an air-conditioned unit within the Darwin Correctional Centre. This unit reportedly offers amenities such as a pool table and basketball court. Wright is currently serving a five-month non-parole period following an attempt to interfere with a police investigation into a 2022 helicopter crash.
Details of the Transfer
Sources indicate that Wright was moved to the prison's Complex Behaviour Unit (CBU), a low-security area, approximately two months into his sentence. This move was reportedly due to concerns regarding his high public profile.
The Complex Behaviour Unit is designed for inmates requiring mental health, disability, and behavioral support. It also houses other inmates who may be considered targets for other prisoners.
Questions of Privilege and Overcrowding
Zak Grieve, who spent 12 years at the Darwin Correctional Centre, stated that Wright's transfer raises questions about privilege. This concern comes given the overcrowded and often sweltering conditions experienced by most other inmates.
Mr. Grieve, who had visited the unit previously, confirmed that it provides access to a half-size basketball court, library, music room, and exercise area, along with air conditioning.
The Northern Territory's prison system is currently holding a record number of prisoners. On Tuesday, the Darwin Correctional Centre housed 1,331 prisoners, which is nearly 300 individuals over its official capacity.
Official Stance and Opposition Concerns
NT Corrections Commissioner Matthew Varley did not provide an interview. A spokesperson for the Corrections Department declined to comment on the placement of individual prisoners, citing safety, security, and privacy reasons. The spokesperson affirmed that all prisoner placements are determined following an intake process and classification assessment.
Deputy Opposition Leader Dheran Young expressed concern about Wright's transfer. He highlighted that the Complex Behaviour Unit currently has a waitlist of up to 10 people.
Young stated that the unit is intended for therapeutic care to aid reintegration into society and questioned the decision-making process for high-profile prisoners, referencing potential inequities and institutional racism within the prison system.
Personal Impact and Call for Equity
Kathryn Mills, mother of inmate Jake Fenner, described challenging conditions endured by her son, who has autism. She reported that her son experiences dirty cells, prolonged periods without water access, and frequent lockdowns, leading to limited time outside his cell and the necessity to clean biohazards.
Ms. Mills stated that the disparity in treatment for some prisoners is difficult to accept, advocating for consistent custodial care for all inmates, not just select individuals.