For immediate release

‘Monster’ reignites call for sex-offender register

A 67 year-old sex offender sentenced to a non-parole period of 7 ½ years has reignited the call for a publicly available sex-offender register.

Christopher David Williams was sentenced in the Christchurch District Court yesterday on 12 charges of rape, four of unlawful sexual connection and three of indecent assaults, the offences were described as premeditated and cruel with no remorse.

Garth McVicar, spokesperson for the Sensible Sentencing Trust said the case was yet another classic example of why a publicly available sex-offender register was vital.

“My understanding is that this man has a long history of offending and that his latest victims could have been prevented if his [Williams] previous history was known.”

“Knowledge is power. Knowledge of who is living amongst us and the danger they pose empowers and gives a community the resolve and ability to protect those most at risk – our children.”

“I note the Police Minister has said a publicly available register would force sex-offenders ‘underground’ but this rapist [Williams] relied entirely on being able to keep his activities underground to enable him to continue his evil ways and it appears the Minister is sanctioning his behaviour.”

“Victims must be a priority and preventing further victims must come before any perceived ‘rights’ of offenders, a publicly available sex-offender register that allows the community to protect our most vulnerable is a basic and fundamental human right.”

“We at Sensible Sentencing are firm believers that it is an absolute right to know who is convicted in our Courts and what they are convicted of – public protection and safety must be paramount.”

“Preventing future victims is unconditional and must be enshrined into legislation.” ENDS

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/10035491/Sex-offender-jailed-for-17-years

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