Parole Board Decision

In the matter of the Corrections Act 1997

and

In the matter of an Application for Parole by A

11 January 2008

Reason for Decision

On 27 September, 2006 the Applicant was convicted of maintaining a sexual relationship with a young person under the age of 17 years.

The Applicant was sentenced to a period of imprisonment of 2 years and 6 months with a non-parole period of 1 year and 3 months.

The Applicant was eligible to be released on parole on 26 December 2007.

On 11 January 2008 the Parole Board granted parole for the following reasons, taking into account the statutory criteria pursuant to the Corrections Act 1997:

• The Board conducted an interview with the Applicant’s partner and is satisfied of her genuine support and demonstrated maturity in coming to terms with past events. The Applicant has satisfactory accommodation and the support of his immediate family members.
• The Applicant has firm employment prospects with highly satisfactory recommendations based on past performance. He will act under supervision if employed in the presence of young persons.
• The Applicant has a very good prison record. He has voiced remorse and an understanding of the abhorrence of his crime.
• The Board notes he was assessed as being unsuitable to take part in the Sexual Offenders Treatment Program due to his low risk status.
• The Board has taken into account references received by family and a past employer of the Applicant.
• The Board has taken into account the comprehensive Pre-Parole Report dated 3 December 2007 including comments on the lack of substance abuse at any point in his life.
• The Board has given consideration to Justice Evans comments on passing sentence including the fact that a conviction will significantly damage the Applicant’s future life and that of his family. It is noted that no recommendation was made to have the Applicant placed on the register pursuant to the Community Protection (Offender Reporting) Act 2005.
• It is the Parole Board’s belief that the Applicant’s rehabilitation will be better served out in the community.

Paroled 22/01/08 – 26/03/09