Prisoner Jon Venables, known for the murder of James Bulger, may be released from jail in a few months' time.
In a recent development, the Parole Board for England and Wales has once again denied parole to James Venables, one of the killers of James Bulger. Venables, who was just ten years old at the time of the horrific crime, was convicted of murder in 1993, making him the youngest ever to receive a life sentence.
The parole hearing, held as a private two-day hearing due to concerns about Venables' mental health, took place recently. The board found that Venables still poses a danger to children and cannot be trusted outside of jail. This marks the third consecutive time that Venables' parole bids have been unsuccessful.
James Bulger's parents, Denise Fergus and Ralph Bulger, have been actively involved in the process. They have reportedly written witness statements for the parole hearing, and Denise Fergus hailed the decision taken by the Parole Board in 2023, stating that her child's killer should never 'see the light of day again.'
Kym Morris, spokeswoman and chairwoman of the James Bulger's Memorial Trust, also expressed relief at the decision, stating that it was a 'good outcome for all concerned.'
Venables' history of offences is a significant factor in the Parole Board's decision. In 2001, he was released from prison after serving just eight years, but was later caught with images of child sex abuse on his computer and twice recalled to prison, in 2010 and 2017. Previous conditions placed on Venables included informing his parole officer if he ever got a job, getting their permission before leaving the UK, regularly seeing a forensic psychologist, and being banned from contacting Robert Thompson or any member of James Bulger's family.
The Parole Board has confirmed that Venables' parole review is following standard processes. However, the board members found that Venables has 'continuing issues of sexual preoccupation' and were 'not satisfied' he was safe to be back on the streets.
James Bulger, aged just two, was abducted, tortured, and beaten to death by Venables and his accomplice Robert Thompson in Bootle, Merseyside, in February 1993. The tragic event left a lasting impact on the community and the Bulger family.
Ralph and Jimmy Bulger, James' father and uncle, added in a joint statement that Venables' continued offending after his release had a traumatic impact on them. They expressed their support for the Parole Board's decision and hoped that it would bring some closure to their family.
As Venables' next parole hearing approaches, the Bulger family and the public await the decision with bated breath. The Parole Board has confirmed that the next hearing could take place in the near future.
