James Bulger killer Jon Venables to remain behind bars after parole bid rejected

Jon Venables, one of the convicted killers of James Bulger, will remain behind bars as the Parole Board rejected his bid for release. The decision, made by a panel after a two-day closed-door hearing, cited concerns about public safety and questioned Venables' ability to be open with professionals.

"The panel was not satisfied that release at this point would be safe for the protection of the public," stated the Parole Board. It highlighted risks, expressed doubt about Venables' transparency with professionals, and emphasized the need for him to address outstanding levels of risk and improve his relationship with his probation officer.

Venables, now 41, was convicted alongside Robert Thompson in 1993 for the murder of two-year-old James Bulger when they were both 10 years old. Despite being given life sentences, they were released on licence with new identities in 2001.


Venables returned to prison in 2010 after indecent images of children were found on his computer. He served another three years before being recalled in 2017 for the same offense.

Justice Secretary Alex Chalk welcomed the decision, emphasizing public protection as the top priority and highlighting opposition to Venables' release. Chalk also noted ongoing government reforms to strengthen ministerial checks on the release of the most dangerous offenders.

Caroline Corby, chair of the Parole Board for England and Wales, ruled that proceedings be held privately due to a legal order preventing the public identification of Venables. James Bulger's family was barred from attending, although victim impact statements were considered.

Venables, during the hearing, declined to give evidence due to a lawyer representing the victim's family being granted permission to listen. He requested the panel consider the review based solely on written evidence.

Venables will be eligible for another parole review in approximately two years. The tragic incident occurred in 1993 when James Bulger was abducted from a shopping center in Bootle, Merseyside, and subsequently murdered.