Residents of De Luz, Calif., are less than pleased to find out their newest neighbor is a rapist.
Barrett Littleton spent 24 years in prison for attacks on seven women, one attack being against a minor under 14, starting in 1986. He moved to De Luz, a small community six miles from Fallbrook, Calif., nearly a month ago, CBS News 8 reports.
Residents gathered at a town hall meeting on Saturday, demanding to know why they had not been notified. San Diego County Sheriff’s Department deputies were unable to answer just why the public had not been informed of Littleton’s arrival. Public notification was made possible by Megan’s law, and is decided on a case-by-case basis depending on the threat to the community, but for some reason the Sexual Offender Management Unit didn’t find Littleton enough of a threat to notify.
Littleton followed requirements by notifying sheriff’s deputies of his move and providing his new address.
People were further frustrated when a representative from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, who confirmed they would be there and was supposed to answer questions about Littleton’s parole, never showed up.
“By not showing up … they’re not concerned about our welfare or how we feel,” TJ Lynas, a resident of De Luz, said.
Torie Smith is particularly concerned, considering Littleton uses her driveway and gate to get to his house. “I’ve lived here for 21 years and I’ve always felt safe and now I don’t feel safe…I feel like I need a loaded gun next to my bed every night,” Smith said. She also claims he has made an indirect threat to her and yelled at her for blocking the driveway.
Another town hall meeting is being planned for when the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation can guarantee a representative will be available.