The Parole Board has denied the release of Colin Pitchfork, a convicted double child killer and rapist. Pitchfork, 65, was sentenced to life in 1988 for the rape and murder of 15-year-olds Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth in Leicestershire in 1983 and 1986. The decision to keep him in prison was made due to concerns about his limited self-control and lack of insight into his risky behavior.
Pitchfork’s attempt to challenge the Parole Board’s decisions regarding an allegation of sexual assault against another prisoner was dismissed by the High Court in February. He was due for a parole hearing last year, but it was postponed as he contested the disclosure of information related to new allegations against him.
Known for being the first person convicted in the UK using DNA profiling, Pitchfork was initially given a minimum 30-year jail term, later reduced to 28 years. The Parole Board highlighted his history of deriving pleasure from assaulting victims and described his violent behavior as a result of pent-up rage.
The panel noted that Pitchfork’s risk increases during times of stress or relationship breakdown, leading to animosity towards women. Despite a brief release in 2021, he breached his parole conditions and was back in prison after approaching a woman while performing community service.
A review in June 2023 found his detention unnecessary for public safety, but the decision was overruled by the justice secretary, leading to his continued incarceration. Concerns were raised about his behavior and rule violations in prison, leading to his loss of employment.
Professional witnesses and a comprehensive dossier from the justice secretary did not support Pitchfork’s release. His crimes, including indecent assaults, were described as shocking and sadistic. Victims were present at recent hearings, following reforms to increase transparency in the justice system.