A violent serial sex offender's on-air apology to his victims may have constituted indirect contact with them and a breach of his reporting conditions, West Australian Corrective Services Minister Joe Francis says.
In an interview on Nine Network on Tuesday night, the offender referred to as "TJD" for legal reasons said he was sorry for his offending and assured the public it would not happen again.
After he was released from prison in March under a strict 10-year supervision order with 44 reporting conditions, WA Attorney General Michael Mischin ordered a complete review of the Dangerous Sexual Offenders Act because he personally felt the man should not have been freed.
Mr Mischin reportedly believes the interview was legal but says the review will look at media interviews.
Mr Francis, however, is seeking advice from the State Solicitor's Office as to whether the interview constituted a breach of TJD's reporting conditions.
"I think we owe it to his 13 victims to ensure that all of those conditions imposed by the Supreme Court are adhered to," Mr Francis told Fairfax radio on Wednesday.
"If there's a breach, it will be reported and dealt with by the courts."
He also questioned the broadcaster's decision to air the interview.
"I don't know what they were thinking.
"It made my skin crawl.
"I just think it was tasteless. I don't think it helps the victims.
"I don't think this guy deserved the right of reply, so to speak."
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