Alberta man named long-term offender

CALGARY — A Calgary man who viciously assaulted three young prostitutes has been declared one of Alberta's first long-term offenders.

Clement Joseph Robinson was sentenced to seven years in prison and must also be supervised for 10 years after his release.

The long term offender designation was adopted by the federal government in 1997. It's one step down from the dangerous offender designation which means an offender can be kept in prison indefinitely.

Robinson, 41, pleaded guilty to attacking the prostitutes, one of whom was under 18 years old.

He violently choked his victims and left them distraught and traumatized.

The court ruled that Robinson's behaviour was exacerbated by his alcohol abuse which brings on hallucinations and increased violence.

"The court is satisfied that the accused has shown a pattern of repetitive behaviour which shows a likelihood of his causing injury to other persons as well as the potential of inflicting severe psychological damage on others," wrote Judge Sandra Hamilton.

Hamilton also noted the strong need to supervise Robinson after his release because of repeated alcohol abuse.