Swade James Davis, 30, was originally sentenced to more than five years’ imprisonment when he appeared in the Dunedin District Court in 2024, but later had two years added to the term for the in-court assault, which left the victim with a broken cheekbone and needing five weeks off duty.
Davis waived his right to appear before the Parole Board last month and panel convener Olivia Brittain noted the inmate had been involved in 13 ‘‘incidents’’ while in jail, 10 of which were upgraded to misconducts.
The man also attacked another prisoner in July 2025 and is set to be sentenced on a charge of injuring with intent to injure at the North Shore District Court next month.
Ms Brittain said despite the frequent indiscretions, Davis’ file notes indicated a recent improvement in his behaviour which had resulted in his security status being reduced from maximum to high.
Davis also told the board he planned to leave the Killer Beez gang.
In 2023, he and others forced their way into a Dunedin home, demanded cash from the occupant and subjected him to a vicious beating. After breaking the victim’s arm, they took his bank card, keys and a CCTV unit.
The Parole Board heard the man remained opposed to Davis’ early release and wanted him excluded from Dunedin when he was eventually freed.
Ms Brittain said that was an ‘‘entirely reasonable’’ request.
Davis was listed to undergo a comprehensive alcohol-and-drug assessment as well as an anti-violence programme, but that could not occur until after his upcoming sentencing, the board heard.
Given the seriousness of his crimes and the fact his rehabilitative work had not yet begun, Ms Brittain determined he was an undue risk to the community.
Davis will next see the board in April 2027. His sentence end date is January 2030.
