One of James Bulger’s killers has been denied his latest bid for freedom.
Jon Venables attempted to make a fresh appeal for parole during a two-day hearing last month after previously being denied since re-entering prison.
The 41-year-old’s case was met with a plea from James’s mother Denise Fergus, who urged decision-makers to ‘keep people safe’ from the murderer.
On Wednesday, the Parole Board confirmed Venables, now behind bars for being in possession of child sexual abuse images, will not be released.
A statement read: “After considering the circumstances of his offending, the progress made while in custody and on licence, and the evidence presented in the dossier, the panel was not satisfied that release at this point would be safe for the protection of the public.
“It noted the risks as set out above, doubted Mr Venables’ ability to be open and honest with professionals, and concluded that there remained a need for him to address outstanding levels of risk, and to develop his relationship with his probation officer.”
A summary of the Parole Board’s ruling confirmed the reasons for Venables, whose new identity along with accomplice Robert Thompson are protected, being denied freedom.
It claimed he had acknowledged having a ‘long-term sexual interest in children/indecent images of children’ and warned of ‘future risks’ to further reoffending.
The James Bulger Memorial Trust, set up as a legacy of the toddler’s senseless 1993 killing, welcomed the ruling on behalf of mother Denise.
“This is the day Denise has waited for for years,” said chair Kym Morris.
“The prospect of him coming out was terrifying, as we knew he’d harm again.
“This is a day we celebrate and we thank the Parole Board for making the correct decision.”