Court-appointed psychiatrists have recommended that repeat sex offender Erik Andersen, known as the “pocket man,” can be released on probation next week, when he will have served the minimum portion of his 10-year term in protective custody. It remains unclear whether the court will go along with the recommendation.
Newspaper VG reported that two more psychiatrists have supported an initial conclusion made by forensic expert Randi Rosenqvist that there is little danger Andersen will commit new sexual assaults. He was convicted of abusing 66 boys over the course of many years as he traveled around Norway, tricking them into putting their hands into his trouser pockets.
The psychiatrists believe there will be no danger to the public if the 62-year-old Andersen is released with restrictions after serving seven years of his term. Prosecutors, however, are skeptical that his pedophilia can be cured.
newsinenglish.no staff
