RCNI Press Release 26th January 2009

Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) called for sentencing in rape cases to include pre-release risk assessment, including sentencing of those known to be a danger to society, such as David Hegarty sentenced today to 13 years for a third rape.

Fiona Neary, RCNI Director said, ‘society has the right to be protected from serial rapists such as David Hegarty. It is not acceptable that Mr Hegarty should re enter society regardless of his known risk and without his having demonstrated any reduction in likelihood to rape yet again. Reliable risk assessment must form the basis of repeat sex offenders being freed back into society.

‘For example, a serial rapist could be given a life sentence, with a review after an appropriate minimum time such as 13 years. When the offender can demonstrate that through participation in Offender Programmes his risk to society of perpetrating further sexual crime is reduced, then supervised release can be considered at this 13 year point. However, where no reduction in risk can be demonstrated, the full life sentence can continue to apply.

‘Additionally, While Judge Paul Carney rightly directed that Hegarty undergo lengthy post release supervision after servicing his 13 year sentence, the RCNI continue to have reservations about the capacity of the State to deliver effective sex offender monitoring. In light of those reservations the RCNI welcome the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform publication of a document entitled "The Management of Sex Offenders - a Discussion Document" tomorrow (27th Jan.) which reviews statutory agency sex offender monitoring. We look forward to participating in the consultative process and the outcomes of the Working Group on the Management of Higher Risk Offenders.’

Notes:
• The RCNI is the national Rape Crisis Sector body, which provides a voice for survivors and is a catalyst for social change towards a society free from abuse.

For information contact:
Clíona Saidléar: 087 2196447
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