A convicted sex offender who raped a woman and threatened her at knifepoint is scheduled to be released from prison tomorrow.
The Government notice was released today by the Ministry of Legal Affairs, stating that Neville Craig Richardson, 54, will be released on Thursday.
The notice listed the defendant’s address as unknown.
“Pursuant to section 329H of the Criminal Code 1907, the Minister of Legal Affairs is empowered to disclose information in relation to sex offenders who are considered to present a risk of significant harm to the health or safety of the public, an affected group of people or an individual,” the notice said.
“In accordance with this power, the Minister, after consulting with the Commissioner of Police has determined that the public should be notified of the impending release of the sex offender.”
Richardson was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment in 2013, after he admitted aggravated burglary, aggravated sexual assault and robbery.
His victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was asleep in her home when she was woken up by someone knocking on the door and calling her name asking for help.
When she opened the door, the man, who she knew, asked to use the phone before he sexually assaulted her.
He also demanded money from the victim and forced her to an ATM to withdraw $400.
When charged, he told police that he was sorry, and that the attack had been “because of my drug use”.
Feature Photo of Neville Craig Richardson Supplied
