The Director of Public Prosecutions v Manning [No 2]

The Director of Public Prosecutions has brought proceedings against Manning, a dangerous sexual offender who is subject to a continuing detention order. Manning's detention order was first imposed in 2019 following a conviction for a serious sexual offence. The matter before the court was the second annual review of Manning's detention order under the provisions of the Sentencing Act 2017 (Vic). The court was required to determine whether Manning remained a dangerous sexual offender and whether it was appropriate for his detention to continue beyond the initial order.

The central issue before the court was whether Manning still posed a risk to the community and whether there were any changes in his circumstances that warranted a different outcome. The court had to consider expert evidence and reports, as well as submissions from both the prosecution and the defence. It also had to assess whether Manning's risk level had decreased and whether alternative measures could adequately protect the community.

The court found that, based on the evidence presented, Manning remained a dangerous sexual offender. It determined that there was no significant change in his risk level since the initial order was made, and that continuing detention was necessary to protect the community. The court emphasised that the decision was based on Manning's own facts and circumstances, taking into account the nature and gravity of his past offences, as well as his potential for future harm. As a result, the court upheld the continuing detention order, allowing Manning's detention to continue for another year.

No further orders were made beyond the continuation of the detention order for one year.