Judge Yvonne Campos has ordered that Merle Wakefield, designated as a sexually violent predator, be released as a transient due to lack of secured housing, with security oversight.
Previous attempts to find housing for Wakefield have failed, including proposals in Poway and Mount Helix; his case will be revisited on Nov. 20.
Sexually violent predators comprise less than 1% of California's sexual offender population, and they are supposed to undergo treatment at Coalinga State Hospital to mitigate risks.
Unlike past cases where permanent housing was secured, Wakefield's case raises concerns about public safety, demonstrating the challenges of placing sexually violent predators.
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