One of Britain's most dangerous sexual predators could spend the rest of his life in a secure hospital after psychiatrists determined he remains a grave threat to the public.
Michael Dunn, 59, who has been labelled the country's worst sex offender, has completed his 22-year prison sentence but now faces indefinite detention under the Mental Health Act.
A Lifetime of Predatory Behaviour
Dunn's horrific criminal history spans decades, with convictions for 36 sexual offences against women and children. His reign of terror included multiple rapes and sexual assaults that left communities living in fear.
Despite serving his full prison term at HMP Wakefield, West Yorkshire, medical professionals have concluded that Dunn's dangerous psychopathic disorders mean he cannot be safely released into society.
The Legal Battle for Public Protection
The Ministry of Justice is now seeking to transfer Dunn from prison to a high-security psychiatric facility, where he would be held indefinitely under mental health legislation.
This rare legal move demonstrates the extreme concern authorities have about Dunn's continued danger to women and children. Psychiatrists have consistently assessed him as having severe personality disorders that make rehabilitation unlikely.
Previous Release Attempts Ended in Disaster
History shows why authorities are taking such drastic measures. During a previous temporary release from a different sentence, Dunn immediately committed further violent sexual offences, proving his inability to control his predatory impulses.
This pattern of reoffending has left mental health professionals and justice officials convinced that conventional prison sentences cannot adequately protect the public from this dangerous individual.
What Happens Next?
The case is now before mental health tribunals who must decide whether Dunn meets the strict criteria for indefinite hospital detention. The evidence presented suggests:
- Dunn suffers from severe personality disorders
- He poses an immediate and serious risk to public safety
- Previous rehabilitation attempts have failed
- Specialist hospital treatment is deemed necessary
If the tribunal agrees with medical assessments, Dunn will be transferred to a secure hospital where his case will be reviewed periodically, but with little expectation of eventual release given his history and psychological profile.
This case highlights the complex intersection of criminal justice and mental health treatment, where public protection must be balanced against individual rights in dealing with Britain's most dangerous offenders.
