The mayor of Blenhiem says the town is on edge as it awaits the release of a notorious sex offender.
Stewart Murray Wilson, 65, dubbed 'The Beast of Blenheim' has spent 18 years in prison for 19 offences, including rape and bestiality.
A hearing has been held today to determine when Wilson will be released and the Parole Board will announce the date tomorrow afternoon.
Marlborough Mayor Alistair Sowman is worried about Wilson’s release.
“Some of his victims have put their hands up they’re terrified they’ll run across him on the street here. Look I think it’s totally unfair on him but unfair on the community that actually know him. I just hope there’s a sensible decision made and they find a place other than Blenheim for him.”
Mr Sowman says he will look at all options to prevent Wilson from returning.
The parole board is deciding if Wilson can return to Blenheim and whether the he will be tracked by GPD when he is freed from Rolleston prison.
Wilson is in jail for rape, assault, bestiality and ill-treating children over a 25-year period and psychologists believe he will reoffend as soon as he is released.
RadioLIVE / 3 News