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Old Age Saves a Child Predator from Jail
04/02/2014

The Sensible Sentencing Trust (SST) is outraged by a sentence handed down to Geoffrey Trethewey, who was convicted of 42 counts of indecent assault and sexual violation, attempted rape and unlawful sexual connection against children under 12 between 1973 to 1991.

The retired podiatrist from Wellington and the Wairarapa, received 12 months home detention for his crimes. Trethewey is 89 years of age.
“Seemingly old age gets you a get-out-of-jail-free card,” Ruth Money, SST spokesperson says. “Another soft sentence that sends a terrible message to sex offenders around NZ.”

The judge had noted that Trethewey’s health was now on the decline and as too, his mental faculties. However, he had been fit to face trial. Even though he pleaded guilty to all charges, Trethewey shook his head and muttered “no” when the victims’ statements were read in court.

“The fact that he has taken no responsibility whatsoever for his actions that have ruined the lives of many people, is horrific,” Money adds. “What a complete waste of police time and resources, not to mention the horror his victims have gone through reliving this event only to have this man condemned to life on the sofa.”

Detective Dave Bealing from Wellington Police believes there could be more victims and urges them to get in contact.

ENDS

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