Holy heck, Batman

While Simon Power has been fussing about the cost of locking prisoners up, especially in police cells, the cost of keeping youth locked up in Youth Justice Residences has gone clean under the radar.

It costs $189 per day to keep a prisoner. So how much do you think it would cost to keep a young person? A little more, a little less?

Try $453.37 per night.

At the Manurewa lock-up it rises to $463.19

For just another $1.81 you could be luxuriating in a Millbrook Villa Suite with a fireplace, patio or balcony with spectacular views over the golf course, mountains or Millbrook grounds, with a mini-bar, satellite TV and video, CD-player, luxurious bathrobes, dial-up or broadband internet access, and full buffet breakfast.

It is no wonder authorities are so opposed to detaining more young people.