Killer paedo freed

NSW Govt fails in bid to stop Guilder walking from Long Bay

NOTORIOUS paedophile Michael Guider, who killed schoolgirl Samantha Knight more than 30 years ago, has walked free from a Sydney prison.

The 68-year-old was released from Long Bay jail yesterday afternoon after the Supreme Court rejected a NSW Government bid to keep him behind bars for another year.

Guider will be subject to a five-year extended supervision order with 56 strict conditions, including that he be electronically monitored 24/7 with an ankle bracelet.

He made no comment to reporters who had gathered outside the jail.

Guider, who emerged bearded and carrying two black garbage bags, will now reside at a halfway house in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

He pleaded guilty in 2002 to the manslaughter of nineyear-old Samantha, who disappeared from Bondi on August 19 1986.

Her body has never been found.

Guider served 17 years for her killing before being placed on an interim detention order which expired yesterday.

Attorney-General Mark Speakman had sought legal advice about challenging Tuesday’s Supreme Court decision that rejected his application to keep Guider behind bars for another year.

But late on Wednesday night, Mr Speakman concluded any appeal would fail.

“So unfortunately and devastating for the families, I won’t be able to bring that appeal,” he told reporters before Guider walked free from jail.

Guider will not be allowed near places where children gather (including schools, pools and cinemas), his internet usage will be monitored and he will not be allowed to change his personal appearance without permission.

“He is a high risk of reoffending, which is why we have sought this order to watch him like a hawk,” Mr Speakman said.