Rapist Seeks to Reduce Community Restrictions on His Life
A convicted rapist argues that strict community rules hinder his job prospects and daily life, seeking relief from the court.
Sydney, Australia, Simon Monteiro, Community Restrictions, Rape, Parole
Sydney: A man known as the “Playboy rapist” is trying to ease some tough rules that control his life after prison. He says these restrictions make it hard for him to find work and even buy food or gifts.
Simon Monteiro, a former actor and model, spent 11 years in prison for raping his ex-girlfriend. He got out on parole in April 2020 but was put under strict supervision just a few months later.
Now, at 58, he’s got 26 conditions to follow, like wearing an ankle monitor and reporting any new relationships within a day. He went to court recently, claiming he’s not a danger to anyone.
Monteiro argued that he’s made friends and had relationships without causing harm since his release. He told the judge, “They can’t point to one woman who says I’ve done something weird.”
He wants to lift some of the limits on where he can work and study, saying, “This order has got to the stage where I have no food, I can’t feed my dog.” He even mentioned he can’t buy Christmas presents.
During the hearing, he complained about various officials and agencies that set these rules, saying they should be held accountable. The state’s lawyer, Sophie Callan, argued that the restrictions are still necessary for public safety.
Justice Garling noted that Monteiro hasn’t committed similar offenses since his release. He also pointed out some confusing rules, like how Monteiro can have relationships with women who’ve faced abuse but can’t work with them.
The judge will make a decision soon, and there’s another hearing planned for May where Monteiro will try to lift all his supervision conditions.
Back in 2009, he was sentenced for breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s home, assaulting her, and then raping her. After she reported him, he retaliated by damaging her belongings.
Monteiro still claims he’s innocent and says he suffered in prison.
If you or someone you know needs help, you can reach out to 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732 or the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service at 1800 211 028.