Proposed Release of Violent Predator in Poway Rescinded by State Hospital Officials

Merle Wakefield was convicted of sexual assaults in the 1980s and 1990s. San Diego County Sheriff's Department

POWAY, Calif.—The proposed conditional release of a man designated as a sexually violent predator (SVP) into a home in Poway has been rescinded, it was announced July 12.

The placement of Merle Wade Wakefield, 67, was recommended by the California Department of State Hospitals for a Sycamore Canyon Road home, marking the third time state officials have sought to place Mr. Wakefield in a residence in the community.