Darren Michael Costello: Violent Rapist Requests To Remove Ankle Bracelet, It ‘Hurts His Confidence’

An Australian convicted rapist recently made headlines and sparked controversy because of a seemingly odd request. Apparently, Darren Michael Costello feels uncomfortable about wearing an ankle bracelet. So, according to News.nom, he has appealed to have the Queensland Supreme Court for the right to remove it. Why? Well, he insists it makes him feel “uncomfortable” and it “hurts his confidence.” Costello’s request and staggering explanation has sparked quite a controversy considering why he has to wear the bracelet in the first place.

According to The Daily Mail, the 43-year-old was found guilty of violently raping a 14-year-old girl in November of 1995. Then, to make matters worse, the girl reportedly committed suicide because of his horrific actions.

Costello’s 2010 release from prison also sparked outrage, because he was able to walk free despite the Queensland’s Attorney General’s request to keep him incarcerated under the Dangerous Prisoners Sexual Offenders Act. However, his release is contingent on strict terms and conditions. Of course, the ankle bracelet is a part of his release terms, but Costello seems to think that a judge will sympathize with him and the “emotional anguish” he claims to suffer as a result of having to wear the bracelet.

Then, to make matters worse, he’s also reportedly received three “contravention notices” for removing the bracelet without authorization, and not reporting to his parole officer in a timely fashion. Now, he wants leniency from a judge to remove the ankle bracelet altogether. In addition to feeling “uncomfortable,” Costello also expressed that he feels “paranoid, uneasy and anxious… with everyone knowing my personal business” as a result of the bracelet.

Here’s Costello’s explanation to justify his request.

“I feel the monitoring device is an obstacle and barrier in my way from (sic) being able to try and live a normal life and engage with people. I am very uncomfortable by (sic) the noise it creates and am paranoid that everybody knows that I have a monitoring device.”

It has also been reported that Costello has three current job opportunities. However, the ankle bracelet prohibits him from being hired. One employer also expressed that the ankle bracelet is “not exactly the image a company looks for.” So, employment issues are reportedly another reason for Costello’s request. He is scheduled to appear in court for the request on February 3.

Do you think Michael David Costello should be allowed to remove the ankle bracelet? Share your thoughts.

[Image via Courier Mail]