Title: Norwegian manhunt sentenced 15 years ago for abusing his son seeks early release
At the end of his incarceration, a Norwegian man convicted in 2002 for numerous counts of abuse against his then-16-year-old son is seeking an extension of his sentence by three years, albeit with a regular parole. This would be the third extension since his initial sentence, with the first coming in 2012, and the last in 2021.
The 60-year-old, who has spent nearly three decades behind bars, was the first person in Norway to receive a sentence of mandatory custody following the implementation of new rules in 2002. His crimes include molesting his son in a visiting room at Ila Prison, where he was serving time for similar offenses against seven other boys, and in the son’s mother’s apartment while on parole.
Prosecutor Erik Førde, who acted as the attorney in the original case, supports the man’s request for parole with regular, tailored conditions. The man’s lawyer, Knut Ditlev-Simonsen, echoes this sentiment, stating that his client is prepared to accept any conditions attached to his release, including restrictions on contact with minors.
However, concerns persist about the man’s safety around young boys. In 2002, expert psychiatrists testified that he should never again be left alone with young males. Førde agreed at the time, stating that it was highly likely the man would never control his pedophilic impulses.
Despite these concerns, a new risk assessment has been conducted, the details of which are not yet public. Førde suggests that the findings of this assessment, along with the man’s aging and perceived behavioral changes, could warrant an ordinary parole release.
The man’s case will be reviewed in the Romerike and Glåmdal District Court in early February. If granted parole, he will be provided with housing and support to reintegrate into society. However, contact with minors will likely remain restricted.
