Christopher Watts, now 64, recently filed a grievance from within the Jamieson Community Correctional Institute, arguing over semantics. He claimed he wasn’t a “rapist” because the Canadian Criminal Code now uses the term “sexual assault.” The argument felt hollow, a chilling attempt to redefine monstrous acts.
The core of the matter isn’t the label, but the horrifying reality. Watts was convicted in the 2001 death of Amanda Raymond, who was just 13 years old. His crimes involved manslaughter, sexual interference, and sexual assault – a sequence of events that culminated in a young girl’s tragic overdose.
The details surrounding Amanda’s death are deeply disturbing. She was found at Watts’ home, having been sexually assaulted while unconscious. An autopsy revealed lethal levels of multiple drugs in her system, and her body was further desecrated with cruel and callous markings.
Watts’ history extends far beyond this single horrific incident. In 1989, he received a four-year sentence for violently restraining and gagging another teenage girl during a drug-fueled episode. This established a pattern of predatory behavior that continued to alarm authorities.
Psychological evaluations consistently painted a grim picture of Watts. Experts described him as a psychopath, devoid of guilt or remorse. The trial judge echoed this assessment, stating Watts was “totally defiant” and exhibited no sense of responsibility for his actions.
Following his initial 12-year sentence, Watts was subject to a 10-year Long Term Supervision Order. However, his release has been plagued by repeated violations. He’s proven a challenge for Corrections Canada, with numerous halfway houses refusing to accept him due to the extreme risk he poses.
The search for suitable supervision proved difficult. British Columbia rejected him, citing a “deeply disturbing case profile.” Ontario was off-limits due to threats made against police officers, and Quebec also declined to house him. The decision to relocate him to the Maritimes remains shrouded in secrecy, justified only by claims of protecting his privacy.
Watts has repeatedly breached his parole conditions, twice involving interactions with girls under the age of 18. Despite these violations, he became eligible for statutory release again this month. Now, he is living in Ottawa, prompting a warning from police who believe he continues to pose a significant threat, particularly to young women.
The Ottawa Police Service has issued a public notice, acknowledging Watts’ high-risk status. This isn’t simply a matter of bureaucratic procedure; it’s a stark warning to the community about a dangerous individual back on the streets.
The case of Christopher Watts is a chilling reminder of the enduring consequences of unspeakable crimes and the ongoing struggle to protect vulnerable individuals from those who would prey upon them.
