A survivor of one of South Australia’s most infamous paedophiles has voiced his distress at the impending release on parole of his attacker, Anthony Munro. Andrew McIntyre expressed his frustration upon learning about Munro’s release from another victim, as he did not receive a formal notification regarding the decision.
Years later, McIntyre continues to grapple with the trauma from the abuse he suffered as a child at the hands of Munro, a family friend who preyed on him when he was just nine years old. Reflecting on his ordeal, McIntyre commented, “I have children of my own, and I can’t think of anything more horrid.” The abuse occurred over several decades, with Munro being imprisoned for the sexual abuse of multiple children from the 1960s to the 1990s.
McIntyre’s disappointment stemmed from the fact that he was not informed about Munro’s parole status, stating, “I’ve never received any notification – maybe that’s my fault, I don’t know.” His lawyer, Andrew Carpenter, emphasised the psychological impact on survivors, noting that the last thing they want is to encounter an offender thought to be incarcerated.
Munro, sentenced in 2017 to 10 years and nine months for his heinous crimes, had a further conviction added in later years due to evidence of additional abuse. McIntyre expressed outrage at the perceived leniency of the penalties, describing it as “appalling” given the circumstances. Carpenter echoed this sentiment, labelling the need for legislative changes imperative to better protect victims from future harm.
While Munro’s exact parole release date remains undecided, it is understood that he will face stringent conditions, including electronic monitoring and home confinement. He is also prohibited from contacting any of his victims. Notably, Munro was investigated in connection with the unresolved case of the Beaumont children but found to have no links to their disappearance.
Support services are available for individuals affected by such trauma, including the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).