High-risk sex offender back in custody after being granted leave privileges

A high-risk offender with a history of sex crimes against children and domestic violence, Harvey Joseph Venus, is once again facing new charges that could potentially land him in prison for up to 10 years. Venus, 39, was recently granted leave privileges from a halfway house to assist in his gradual reintegration into the community, but just 17 days after this decision, he was back in custody.

According to the parole board decision dated April 17, Venus was caught driving a vehicle without a valid driver’s license by Halifax police. Upon pulling him over, officers found cocaine on his male passenger, a stolen license plate sticker, and a second cellphone, which violated his parole conditions. All of these infractions have led to pending charges for operating a vehicle without a license, possession of stolen property, and a breach of his long-term supervision order.

Venus admitted to the error of purchasing and driving a vehicle without a license in an interview after his arrest. He also mentioned being overwhelmed by an alleged shooting incident and feeling harassed by another resident at the halfway house, in addition to the stress caused by media attention on his case.

Venus has a troubling criminal history, including sexual assaults against both male and female victims, as well as incidents of domestic violence. He has struggled with a range of disorders, including deviant sexual preferences and fetishistic disorders. Despite completing various programs, the parole board believes that untangling his past will be a significant challenge.

Throughout his previous releases, Venus has repeatedly violated his long-term supervision order and has a poor history of conditional release. His risk for sexual violence is deemed to be extremely high, and the board has expressed skepticism about his ability to comply with the conditions of his release.

The parole board has recommended charging Venus with breaching his long-term supervision order, and the Correctional Service of Canada has suspended his order. The decision to proceed with charges now lies with the attorney general’s office, which will review the case and determine the appropriate course of action.

As of now, Venus remains in federal custody, and his long-term supervision order is set to expire in December 2030. The parole board and law enforcement agencies are closely monitoring his case to ensure the safety of the community and prevent any further harm.