A JUDGE has asked officials to reconsider whether more support can be provided after prison to a central Victorian man who sexually abused his young niece.
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The 53-year-old man appeared in the County Court this week after he pleaded guilty to one charge of sexual penetration of a child under 16.
Over a three-year period, the man sexually assaulted his young niece on four separate occasions.
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The offending started when the girl was 12 and took place at the girl's home, the man's property, and at a family friend's house.
Defence counsel Eleanor Millar said while the man had been diagnosed with a moderate intellectual disability, the Department of Health and Human Services had deemed the man unsuitable for a justice plan.
Ms Millar called neuropsychologist Jane Lofthouse to give evidence in the County Court on Wednesday.
Ms Lofthouse said the man had a full-scale IQ of 69 and a general ability index of 78, which would bring him into the extremely low or borderline ranges.
The neuropsychologist said the offender had an impaired memory, difficulties with learning, and limited planning skills.
Ms Lofthouse said the man struggled to socialise and he only appeared to interact with his carer and his aunt.
The neuropsychologist told the court a justice plan would be a "positive experience" for the man, as it would provide him with additional support as he completed a community corrections order.
But Ms Lofthouse also noted if there was consistent monitoring and assistance, the man was also capable of completing a regular corrections order.
Judge Sarah Dawes said it would be appropriate to ask the department to reconsider its finding.
The matter was adjourned to a date yet to be fixed. The man's bail was extended to that next court date.
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