Media coverage of rapist created a ‘witch-hunt’

MEDIA coverage of convicted rapist Larry Murphy’s release from prison was the “most appalling sabotage” of his post-prison life and created a “witch-hunt” that caused deep anxiety among the public, the Irish Prison Chaplains report has claimed.

As part of a wider criticism of how prisoners are treated by newspapers, radio and television, the document said the “media circus” surrounding Mr Murphy’s August release “was both shameful and dangerous”.

In its most controversial statement, the annual report said officials leaking information on the released man’s whereabouts did not help to alert the public to a potential danger who failed to receive psychological rehabilitation while jailed.