A serial child rapist, whose actions have sparked controversy regarding deficiencies within South Australia’s legal system, is back in custody. However, victim Mike Worsman is disheartened by the sentence, which will permit the offender’s release after just over a year. The ACT Supreme Court imposed a two-year sentence for the rape of Worsman when he was only 12 years old, but the offender will be eligible for release after 16 months followed by an 18-month good behaviour bond, leaving Worsman feeling that justice has not been served.
Worsman expressed his frustration, stating, “That’s not justice,” and highlighting the enduring damage done to him and his family over the past six years, which he believes far surpasses any comfort derived from the offender’s brief imprisonment. Following the conclusion of a five-year sentence in South Australia for another offence, Worsman had sought to prevent the predator’s release. Alarmingly, the offender was able to travel to Canberra for a court appearance shortly after, and even while on bail, was charged for harassing Worsman with a text message.
Worsman described his experiences in the past fortnight as a blatant disregard for him as a victim, nearing contempt. Despite his disappointment in the legal system, he remains committed to supporting other victims, aspiring to be an advocate for those who may lack the confidence to share their stories. He emphasises the need for reform, underscoring the importance of amplifying victim voices and implementing mandatory sentencing to protect those who come forward. Worsman questions, “What is the innocence of a child worth?” as a rallying cry for necessary changes in the justice framework.