‘Hermit’ sentenced to counselling to re-enter society

A Maine man, who claims to have spent 27 years living in the woods as a hermit, pleaded guilty to burglary and theft in a deal in which he will receive counselling to re-enter society.

Judge Nancy Mills, of Maine Superior Court, ordered Christopher Knight, 47, to check in weekly with the court to confirm that he is either working full time, attend schooling or volunteering, and undergoing mental health counselling for a year to ensure a “successful” return to the community.

“This is someone who has had no involvement with anybody for 27 years,” Mr Knight’s lawyer, Walter McKee, said.