Michael John Neal, an HIV positive Australian (49), who allegedly saw himself as the grim reaper, was sentenced to 18 years in prison for spreading the virus. He will spend at least 13 years and 9 months in prison, Australian media report.

He has already served 2 years and nine months from his entire sentence.

Neal welcomed the verdict quietly, without a reaction, even though it meant he will leave prison at the age of 61. The court sentenced him on 15 counts of the indictment, including intention of infecting another with HIV, rape and drugging others with the intention of sexual penetration.

Not much of a chance of rehabilitation

Neal is guilty, the court ruled, for the attempt of infecting eight people and negligent behaviour which threatened three more, in the period from 2000 until 2006. He was diagnosed with HIV in 2000.

The judge pointed out while reaching the verdict that he does not believe the man could be rehabilitated and that the chances were slim. Neal has previously been warned about his irresponsible behaviour on several occasions, but he ignored all warnings.

He kept his infection a secret from his victims, or he simply denied it. Even after the verdict, he did not show much remorse and it was determined that he infected his victims out of sexual urges – to have more partners he could be intimate with.