Gang rapist Mohammed Skaf has walked out of jail after more than two decades behind bars.
Skaf, 38, walked from Long Bay prison wearing a Hugo Boss jumper, sunglasses and a mask alongside Community Corrections officials.
At the time of sentencing District Court Judge Michael Finnane found Skaf was “a vicious, cowardly bully, arrogant and a liar, as well as being a rapist”.
In its judgement, the State Parole Authority (SPA) acknowledged “the likely effect of parole on the victims” but said there was no other option.
“This is the only opportunity to supervise a safe transition into the community in the small window of time that we have left,” SPA Chairman David Frearson, SC, said.
“Release without structure or supervision makes little sense for community protection.”
Margaret Cunneen, SC, who prosecuted the Skaf family, agreed it was time.
“Even murderers generally get parole and it’s designed that way by the courts so that the integration can be gradual,” she said.
Skaf will be subjected to strict conditions, which include electronic monitoring, a ban on entering the LGAs of Liverpool, Fairfield, Blacktown and Parramatta and to undergo counselling as directed.
