Media release from Rape Prevention Education, Rape Crisis Auckland

Many survivors of sexual violence likely to be affected by the release of Stewart Wilson

Dr Kim McGregor, Executive Director of Rape Prevention Education - Whakatu Mauri, says “Given Corrections had no choice but to release Stewart Wilson, who continues to pose a high risk to women, young girls and children, I commend the Corrections Department and the New Zealand Police for collaborating over a four to five month period to prepare the most stringent conditions possible prior to his release. Like most New Zealanders, I hope these conditions will be sufficient to make the community safe from his offending”.

His conditions include that: a GPS tracking system is on him 24/7; he cannot leave his home in the grounds of the Whanganui Prison without being accompanied; he cannot have any female visitors or contact with children; he cannot have anyone living with him; and he cannot access the internet, own a car, leave the Whanganui District, get a job, attend any addiction support groups or churches, consume alcohol or drugs or contact those he victimised.

Despite the stringent conditions of his release both Kim McGregor and Louise Nicholas, (Survivor Advocate at Rape Prevention Education - Whakatu Mauri) are concerned for the effect Wilson’s release will have, not only on those he has victimised but also on many survivors of sexual violence.
Louise Nicholas says “When any high profile case of sexual violence is highlighted in the media, many of those who have experienced such violence will be reminded of their own experiences. Many may need to seek specialist counselling support to deal with the traumatic reminders that still affect them”.

Survivors of sexual violence who need to seek support can go to the Rape Prevention Education website www.rpe.org.nz / Get Help /Find a Sexual Assault Centre Near You /, for a list of specialist support agencies throughout the country.

ENDS

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