There is no question that everyone is entitled to a fair trial. There is also no question that this scumbag is really well-known in Qld, because he's such a serial offender everytime he gets out.
However, I think this judge has misinterpreted the rule. It's my understanding that the concept of a fair trial applies only to the circumstances of the particular case to be tried, not to the person's overall noteriety. So, in this case, even though he's a notorious sex offender, most people wouldn't know the particulars of the case with which he is being charged, therefore he can receive a fair trial for this particular case.
If that wasn't the case, someone like Chopper Reid could never be charged with a future murder, because he's so notorious for his previous "hits".
I find it astonishing that someone could reach the position of district court judge and come down with a decision like this.
