Corrupt former SA magistrate Bob Harrap set for release from prison this weekend having finished his 12-month minimum term

Former SA magistrate Bob Harrap has completed his minimum term for corruption offences and is expected to walk from jail as early as today.

Corrupt ex-magistrate Bob Harrap is expected to be released from prison this weekend – possibly as early as Friday – having been of good behaviour during his minimum sentence.

On December 4 last year, Harrap, 62, was jailed for 18 months for telling multiple lies to try to avoid demerits for speeding in his government-issued car.

While a subsequent prosecution appeal increased his sentence to 21 months, his 12-month non-parole period was not altered – making him eligible for release this weekend.

The Advertiser understands arrangements have been made for Harrap to be released from Port Lincoln Prison, where he has spent the majority of his sentence.

Though he will return to the community, he will spend the next 11 months on parole – meaning any breach of the law could see him returned to custody.

Standard parole conditions, under the SA system, include bans on drinking alcohol, and both reporting to and following the directions of Correctional Services officers.

Harrap faced a maximum seven-year prison term after pleading guilty to two counts of deceiving another to benefit himself and one count of conspiracy to abuse public office.

He involved his former clerk Melanie Jane Freeman and his SA Police prosecutor girlfriend, Abigail Foulkes, in his offences via long-term grooming and exploiting emotional ties.

Harrap also conspired with lawyer Catherine Jayne Moyse by improperly assisting her with a speeding case that came before him for decision.

Moyse was convicted and fined $6000 for her part in that offence but was permitted to return to her legal career.

It is unlikely Harrap will be afforded the same opportunity.

While other SA lawyers have continued to practise following criminal convictions, the nature of Harrap’s case is likely to exclude him from appearing at the bar table ever again.