Sex offender unsuitable for rehab, parole
CHRISTCHURCH: A Dunedin man jailed for sex offending that spanned 20 years has been declined parole, because he refuses to accept responsibility for his crime.
And it has been revealed he is ‘‘not suitable’’ for rehabilitation because of his denial of the offending.
In 2017, Murray Oscar Kannewischer was found guilty in the Dunedin District Court of 21 charges — 18 counts of indecency, two of rape, and one of indecent assault.
His offending started in 1963, carried on until 1983 and involved victims aged between 8 and 15.
But it was only revealed when one of the victims came forward in early 2015.
Kannewischer was 85 when he was jailed for eight years.
He became eligible for parole in July but was refused an early release from prison.
Parole Board panel convener Judge David Mather said a recent psychological report assessed Kannewischer as being at low risk.
‘‘Because of his denial, age and health he is assessed as not suitable for any rehabilitation programme by way of group programme or individual psychological counselling,’’ Judge Mather said in his parole decision.
‘‘The psychologist
recommends that the focus be on safety planning and release planning.’’
Judge Mather said the board had also considered the views of Kannewischer’s victims both in writing and in person at meetings before the hearing.
‘‘The impact on them has been enduring and profound,’’ he said.
‘‘They are understandably concerned that Mr Kannewischer be released to an address near where they live.’’
But he would not be able to live anywhere near them when he was released — and that would not happen soon.
‘‘There can be no question of him being ready for release on parole,’’ Judge Mather said.
‘‘We endorse the recommendation that the focus be on safety and release planning.
‘‘Taking these matters into account, we decline parole.’’
Kannewischer will appear before the board again in July 2021.
At sentencing, Judge Michael Crosbie described Kannewischer’s offending as ‘‘systematic abuse’’.
‘‘You preyed on these defenceless young women when they were all at about the same stage of physical and emotional development,’’ he said.
‘‘Make no mistake, this is very grave offending.’’
The court heard from several women about their experiences with the offender. — The New Zealand Herald