Colin Pitchfork’s latest parole hearing scrapped from public eye amid fresh allegations. The notorious double child killer, jailed for life in 1988, will now face a private hearing after “unforeseeable developments.”
Pitchfork: Britain’s First DNA-Convicted Murderer
Colin Pitchfork, 64, was locked up for raping and strangling two 15-year-old girls, Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth, in Leicestershire during the 1980s. He was the UK’s first murderer to be caught using DNA profiling, receiving a life sentence with a minimum term initially set at 30 years, later cut to 28.
Fresh Allegations Halt Public Hearing
The Parole Board confirmed the upcoming hearing will no longer be public, following the emergence of new allegations linked to “relatively recent conduct.” A spokesperson explained a panel met on Wednesday 10 July to discuss how to handle fresh evidence related to Pitchfork’s risk.
“It has been caused by unforeseeable developments, including fresh allegations in respect of relatively recent conduct,” said the Parole Board. “We regret the increased stress this may cause the victims’ families.”
Pitchfork’s Troubled Release and Recall
- Released in September 2021 after decades behind bars.
- Returned to prison two months later for breaching licence by approaching a lone woman.
- Parole Board ruled his recall flawed last June, stating detention was no longer needed for public safety.
- Justice Secretary Alex Chalk blocked that decision, calling for a review.
- Pitchfork lost his bid for freedom in December but successfully challenged continued detention earlier this year, forcing a fresh parole hearing.
Families Left in Limbo
The Parole Board has invited victims’ families to attend parts of the private proceedings, stressing the importance of their involvement. They promised to publish the decision made by the panel chair on their website once available.
This case remains a focal point of public concern due to the horrific nature of Pitchfork’s crimes and ongoing risks to community safety.
