Rapist worked as Sky TV salesman

File photo / NZ Herald

A convicted rapist was able to violate his supervision orders and work as a door-to-door salesman in Christchurch for months before he was discovered.

John Clarke, now known as John Connor, began work as a Sky TV contractor in February, despite being told by his probation officer that working as a salesman was not an approved form of employment, The Press reported.

As part of his supervision orders, Connor was not allowed to come into contact with anyone aged under 16.

On June 21, he was dismissed by Sky TV when they were alerted to his background.

Community Probation Services (CPS) general manager Katrina Casey said Connor could face charges in court on Monday of breaching his extended supervision order.

She said it was "completely inappropriate" for him to work in any field that might have him come into contact with people under the age of 16.

In 1997, Connor kidnapped and raped a 15-year-old schoolgirl after offering her a ride from a Lyttelton sports function.

At the time he was on bail for attacking a 24-year-old woman nine months earlier.

He was jailed for 11 years for the two sex attacks.

On June 21, a member of the public contacted The Press to say they had spotted Connor working as a Sky salesman.

Police investigated and said they were not aware of any offences committed during his time selling Sky TV.

Sky TV spokeswoman Kirsty Way said the company became aware of the situation on June 21 and he was let go that day.

"Reference checks were done and the contractor had an email from the police saying his background was fine," Ms Way said.

Connor had been warned by his probation officer not to work as a salesman, but he lied and said he was unemployed.

- NZPA