Derryl
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
Derryl is in his early 40s and has avoidant personality disorder, autism and depression.
About three years ago Derryl was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for offences relating to possession and distribution of child exploitation material (CEM).
Derryl told the Royal Commission that he believes people with autism and other developmental disabilities are more prone to committing CEM offences. He says this is due to a range of complex factors, which can include childhood trauma and the difficulty of forming close relationships.
He told us he never had a desire to break the law. At the time he did not think he was ‘crossing the line’ and believes that his disability allowed him to rationalise what the law actually allows him to do.
His disability, he said, should have formed part of his defence, and greater consideration should have been given to it when he was sentenced.
Derryl experienced serious depression and suicidal thoughts during the investigation, throughout the court case and his incarceration. He has been ostracised from his friends and family. Yet, he says, when he was released from prison he was not offered any counselling or assistance finding work.
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.