Sexually Violent Predator Released in Southern California

Merle Wakefield, who was convicted of sexual assaults from the '80s and '90s, is a sexually violent predator. San Diego County Sheriff's Department

JACUMBA HOT SPRINGS, Calif.—A sexually violent predator is now living in southeastern San Diego County after his release from a state mental hospital, which followed several years in prison, authorities said Wednesday.

Merle Wade Wakefield was released from Coalinga State Hospital Tuesday and temporarily lives at 42920 Desert Rose Ranch Road under the Conditional Release Program, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.