Release of killer of 83 year-old widow appalling says Trust

The proposed release of a man who raped and murdered 83-year-old widow Nora Sole in her New Plymouth home in February 1992 has infuriated the Sensible Sentencing Trust.

Gary Edward Ladbrook was sentenced to ‘LIFE’ imprisonment – but is to be released on parole on May 9 – even though his latest psychological report showed him to be at high risk of re-offending.

Sensible Sentencing Trust Spokesman, Garth McVicar said he was appalled by Ladbrooks release. “This decision shows categorically how ‘broke and corrupt’ our justice system is.”

“The Parole Board tells us their paramount consideration is the safety of the community and that they must take the victims’ views into account.”

“Here we have his latest psychological report shows him to be at high risk of re-offending – so high in fact they want him electronically monitored – his victims are totally opposed to his release yet they go ahead and release him!”

Mr. McVicar said while the Parole Board will say their hands are tied by legislation, which in fact is a cop-out. “Every citizen has an overriding responsibility – no matter who they work for – to speak out if they see something that is so blatantly wrong.”

“In a so-called civilized society it is incredibly vulgar and primitive to put a victim’s family through this nightmare.”

“We kid ourselves that we are a caring, compassionate society but to release an offender who has committed the despicable atrocities Ladbrook has is barbaric!”

“I watch in horror as families of victims like Nora Sole become increasingly frantic, often suffering anxiety attacks and worse as another parole hearing draws near.”

“When an offender like Ladbrook is released the hurt and emotional damage to the victims’ family is incomprehensible and totally irreparable. And this is harm that is caused by a so-called justice system.

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