Jon Venables parole decision delayed as James Bulger's family fear release

28 November 2023 , 14:19

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Jon Venables hopes to be released (Image: PA)

The Parole Board's decision on the release of Jon Venables has been delayed for two weeks, justice chiefs have said.

The 41-year-old, who abducted and killed two-year-old James Bulger in 1993, had a private parole hearing on November 14. A result was expected 10 to 14 days later, but Parole bosses have now said the decision on whether he can be released or not will be announced in mid-December.

According to reports, the decision is now expected by December 15. Just four days later, Parliament breaks for the Christmas holidays and will return on January 8. The family of James are said to be "terrified" as they fear that Venables could be "sneaked out" before Christmas while MPs are not sitting.

James Bulger was killed in 1993 (PA)

Last night a spokeswoman for James's mum Denise Fergus said: "We've been made aware that the parole decision, initially expected this week, will now be made in another two weeks. While this news is frustrating for Denise and her family, we understand and appreciate the importance of adhering to procedural requirements in such matters.

"Denise and her family are grappling with heightened emotions and uncertainty. It is our sincere hope that, despite the delay, the parole board will carefully consider all relevant factors and make the decision that ensures the safety of the public, wellbeing of Denise and her loved ones - by not granting Jon Venables parole. Thank you for your understanding."

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A source told The Sun: "James’ family are terrified of what this means. It is really irregular to take so long and they are worried Venables could be sneaked out when it is quiet before Christmas and parliament is not sitting.

"Normally his release would spark questions in the Commons but that wouldn’t happen if he comes out just before Christmas. The whole thing seems to have been skewed in his favour – including having the private hearing – and now they are taking ages to reach a decision. It is worrying and very irregular, with the family being largely kept in the dark."

Denise Fergus, the mother of murdered toddler James Bulger (PA)

Denise holding a photo of little James (Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)

With fellow 10-year-old Robert Thompson, Venables killed Merseyside lad James Bulger, two, in 1993. Both were sentenced to eight years and released on licence.

But Venables, 41, was recalled to prison in 2010 and 2017 after being found to have indecent images of children. He missed the hearing on November 14/15 for mental health reasons, it was reported.

At the weekend, we reported that justice campaigners have welcomed ex-Home Secretary David Blunkett’s call for Venables to be denied parole. The Labour big-hitter joined victim’s family’s calls for Venables to stay locked up after failing to appear at his own parole hearing.

The grave of murdered toddler James Bulger (PA)

Lord Blunkett said: “Where there has been a serious doubt about... rehabilitation, it is a prerequisite of consideration for release that the individual appears in person.” Kym Morris, head of the James Bulger Charity, told The Mirror: “We welcome Lord Blunkett’s support and hope the parole board make the right decision.”

James’s mum Denise thinks Venables would re-offend if freed. Dad Ralph also said he should not be considered for release. He said: “How can these people even consider releasing Venables from jail if he isn't made to face up to the reality of the vile crimes he has committed?

“How can they not insist he hears what I have to say? It's part of my healing that I get to tell him the way it has affected me and my family. It's just so twisted that we are the ones hurting for the rest of our lives, but he is the one who continues to be protected.”

Chiara Fiorillo