The Ministry of Justice has announced that it has requested the Parole Board to review its decision to release Colin Pitchfork, the double child killer, from prison.
Colin Pitchfork was sentenced to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of Lynda Mann in 1983 and Dawn Ashworth in Leicestershire in 1986. Both victims were 15 years old at the time of their deaths.
Initially, Pitchfork received a minimum sentence of 30 years in 1988, which was later reduced to 28 years for good behavior. He was released in September 2021.
However, just two months after his release, Pitchfork was recalled to prison after approaching young women on the street.
Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk KC expressed his concern for the families of Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth, whose lives were forever altered by Colin Pitchfork’s heinous crimes. He emphasized that public protection is his top priority and, following a careful evaluation, he has asked the Parole Board to reconsider its decision to release Pitchfork. Chalk emphasized the importance of taking all necessary lawful measures to keep dangerous offenders behind bars.
This move by the Lord Chancellor comes after Alberto Costa, the Conservative MP for South Leicestershire, called for the parole decision to be challenged.
Last month, Dawn Ashworth’s mother, Barbara Ashworth, criticized the Parole Board’s recommendation for Pitchfork’s release, describing it as “diabolical.” She expressed concerns about the potential risk he may pose, stating that his true intentions remain unknown. Ashworth firmly believes that Pitchfork should not be allowed to walk the streets, as he has the capacity to cause disruption and harm.
Colin Pitchfork’s crimes were significant in criminal history as he became the first person to be convicted based on DNA evidence. At the time of his initial offense, Pitchfork was a 22-year-old married father of two. He is now in his 60s.
The decision to reconsider Pitchfork’s release was triggered by concerns raised by the Lord Chancellor, who believed there was a compelling case to question the rationality of the Parole Board’s decision.

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