Fresh abuse allegation emerges as paedophile's release date looms
A police complaint from 2004 or 2005 has emerged. WA authorities are deciding whether to release serial child abuser Dennis McKenna.
A new abuse claim has surfaced against one of Western Australia's worst serial child abusers. A court will soon decide on his freedom.
Dennis McKenna abused students at St Andrew's Hostel in Katanning during the 1970s and 80s. Dennis McKenna was working as a warden then.
Justice Marcus Solomon is weighing a key decision. Should Dennis McKenna be declared a high-risk serious offender?
His sentence expires later this year. A whistleblower revealed a police complaint made in 2004 or 2005.
A man made it, claiming McKenna assaulted him. McKenna was never charged over that incident.
Attorney-General Tony Buti confirmed this. The State Solicitor's Office is now reviewing the information.
McKenna denies any crimes after 1981. He blames victims for some of the abuse.
Solomon will decide on McKenna's release conditions. This decision is due in November.
- 1970s and 80s
- Abuse period
- 2004 or 2005
- Complaint surfaced
- 15-and-a-half years, from 2011
- Prison sentence
Why it mattersThe new claim could change expert views. Experts said McKenna poses low risk. This could affect whether he faces indefinite detention or strict limits.
AustraliaThis Western Australian case will set a precedent for how courts handle dangerous offenders approaching release, affecting public safety frameworks across the state.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 11 h ago
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