The daughters, who were subjected to years of abuse from Hume, say they were traumatised after learning the photo went unchecked by guards.

“It makes me feel sick to my stomach he was allowed to look at me while he died,” Neveah Jett said.

Hume, who was serving a 30-year sentence for abusing 14 victims, passed away in August. Diagnosed with terminal cancer, he utilized the voluntary assisted dying process, angering his victims who claim they were not informed in advance.

The controversial photo by Hume’s bedside was taken during the period when his daughters were being abused. He requested to keep this image in his palliative care room at Cessnock Hospital.

It was taken to his bedside by his mother and was not checked by guards.

This has prompted a comprehensive investigation into Corrective Services protocols. Commissioner Gary McCahon acknowledged a significant error and did not dismiss the possibility of disciplinary action against the guards involved.

“I’m deeply concerned the photos were not screened, that concerns me greatly,” McMahon said.

“I sincerely apologise for the trauma this has caused to any victims.

“If there is any wrongdoing by my staff, they’ll be held accountable.”

Hume, who was terminally ill, was serving a 30-year sentence.

Reports indicate that Hume was allowed to walk freely around the hospital grounds and wore a button-up shirt instead of his prison attire on the day he chose to end his life.

When asked if being unshackled and able to roam the grounds was protocol, McMahon said it was not and that it was also subject to investigation.

”That is outrageous. He died a free man,” Jett said.

“He did not die a prisoner, and that man’s password on every account he had was freedom, the word freedom, and you guys gave it to him.”

Jett is now working to become a victim advocate as she pushes for reform.

“I’ve sent an email to Corrective Services, Health Services, and the Premier demanding VAD reform, yet I’ve received no reply. This issue cannot go unaddressed,” she stated.