Violent Sexual Predator Robert Howell Seeks Release, Raises Community Safety Concerns

After more than three years in a secure facility, Robert A. Howell, 57, is seeking release, prompting scrutiny from state officials and raising concerns about public safety in Pacific County, Washington. Howell, determined to be a sexually violent predator (SVP) following a 2022 trial, is currently housed at the McNeil Island Special Commitment Center.

Howell’s Criminal History

Howell’s history of sexual offenses dates back to 1996, when he was convicted of second-degree child molestation and sentenced to 86 months in prison. In 2016, he was convicted of second-degree kidnapping and third-degree rape, receiving a 72-month prison sentence. Following his prison term, a jury found Howell to be an SVP on October 17, 2022, leading to his civil commitment at McNeil Island.

The McNeil Island Special Commitment Center

The McNeil Island Special Commitment Center, operated by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), houses individuals convicted of serious crimes who are deemed too dangerous to be released into the general population after completing their prison sentences. Individuals are held at the facility until they are no longer considered a significant risk to the public.

Annual Evaluation and Diagnosis

State law requires DSHS to conduct annual evaluations of individuals held at the center to determine if they continue to meet the criteria of an SVP and whether a less restrictive alternative (LRA) would be appropriate. Howell underwent an evaluation completed on June 27, 2025, by Dr. Kristin Carlson, a clinical psychologist at the special treatment center.

Dr. Carlson diagnosed Howell with Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), Alcohol Leverage Disorder (AUD), and a Paraphilic Disorder (PD). A previous evaluation by Dr. Craig N. Teofilo did not diagnose a Paraphilic Disorder due to insufficient evidence. Dr. Carlson, still, determined a diagnosis of Unspecific Paraphilic Disorder was appropriate, noting Howell’s victims ranged in age from 12 to 15.

Risk Assessment and Concerns

Dr. Carlson’s evaluation indicated Howell is in the “very early stages of change” and lacks a concrete plan for a less restrictive environment. He expressed a desire to return to Pacific County, specifically the Long Beach area.

The evaluation highlighted problematic behaviors, including documented incidents of physical aggression and difficulty managing emotions. Dr. Carlson stated that conditions could not be imposed to adequately protect the community, and a conditional release was not in Howell’s best interest at this time.

Using the Static-99 and Violence Risk Scale – Sexual Offense Version, Dr. Carlson assessed Howell’s risk of reoffending. The assessment indicated a 42% likelihood of reoffending within five years and a 55% likelihood within ten years, both categorized as “Well Above Average.”

Howell reported a decrease in sexual desire and self-pleasure, attributing it to observing a relationship on television and reminiscing about a past relationship. He likewise acknowledged a lack of understanding regarding his deviant behavior.

Current Status and Court Hearing

Dr. Carlson concluded that Howell currently meets the definition of an SVP, possessing mental abnormalities and personality disorders that craft him likely to engage in predatory sexual violence if not confined. She stated, with “reasonable degree of psychological certainty,” that conditions could not be imposed to adequately protect the community.

The evaluation is scheduled to be addressed in Pacific County Superior Court on March 6, 2026.