Serial Offender Kaelmn Jonathan James Waho Under Extended Supervision Until 2029

A 34-year-old serial violent offender, Kaelmn Jonathan James Waho, has been placed under extended supervision until March 2029 following his release from prison in November 2023. This decision, made by the High Court in March 2024, followed a formal application by the Department of Corrections, which highlighted Waho’s extensive criminal history and persistent pattern of violent behavior.

Waho has a staggering 49 criminal convictions, with 18 of those specifically related to violent offenses. His history includes stabbing a girlfriend in the abdomen, breaking a bottle over another woman’s head, and potentially causing a third woman to miscarry after punching her. Psychological assessments have identified persistent feelings of jealousy, anger, and a 'vengeful intention' that have been linked to many of his violent acts.

Waho's violent tendencies were evident from a young age. At 17, he punched and threatened to stab a man who was speaking to his girlfriend. He later escalated the violence by smashing a bottle over her head and punching her in the face. In 2013, he stabbed another girlfriend in the abdomen and left her with serious injuries requiring surgery and intensive care. In 2020, he was involved in a high-speed police chase after stealing a car and causing a crash, which led to a violent altercation with officers.

In 2021, Waho was sentenced to three years in prison for a range of offenses, including aggravated assault and driving under the influence of a drug. During his time in custody, the Department of Corrections reported 16 misconduct incidents, including threatening behavior and physical aggression toward other inmates and staff.

Waho's history of family violence has been marked by three serious romantic relationships, each of which ended in violent conflict. His most recent relationship, following his release in 2023, ended with the woman hitting him with her car, further highlighting the pattern of conflict and aggression that has defined his personal life.

The extended supervision order (ESO) granted by the High Court was not without controversy. Waho appealed the decision, arguing that he did not meet the criteria for an ESO. However, the Court of Appeal dismissed his appeal, citing his 'persistent vengeful intention' and the long history of violent behavior as key factors in the ruling.

The High Court's decision also noted that Waho was raised in a gang-affiliated family where he was exposed to extreme violence from an early age. He left school after Year 9 due to drug-related issues and behavioral problems, which likely contributed to his lack of education and increased likelihood of criminal behavior.

Waho's extended supervision order will remain in place until March 2029, with the possibility of further extension if required. This decision underscores the gravity of his criminal history and the significant risk he poses to the public. It also highlights the challenges faced by correctional authorities in managing individuals with deep-rooted violent tendencies and a history of non-compliance with the law.

As this case demonstrates, the justice system must remain vigilant in addressing the long-term risks posed by individuals like Waho. The extended supervision is a necessary measure to ensure public safety, even if it means imposing continued restrictions on someone who has repeatedly violated the law and shown no signs of meaningful change.