Victor Farrant, a convicted murderer serving a whole-life sentence for the killing of his former girlfriend, has passed away in prison, according to the Prison Service. Farrant, aged 74, died at HMP Wakefield on Friday, marking the conclusion of a life marked by violence and tragedy.
Farrant’s heinous crimes included the murder of Glenda Hoskins, his former partner and mother of three, in Portsmouth, as well as the attempted murder of Ann Fidler in Eastleigh in 1996. His actions prompted a resolute condemnation from the judiciary, with Mr Justice Butterfield, presiding over Winchester Crown Court in 1998, decreeing that Farrant should “never be released” due to the extreme danger he posed to society.
For the family of Glenda Hoskins, Farrant’s death brings both relief and a solemn reminder of the enduring pain caused by his actions. In a joint statement released on Monday, Ms Hoskins’ children, Iain, Katie, and David, expressed their gratitude that “this repeat-offender psychopath will not strike again,” acknowledging the closure brought by Farrant’s demise while acknowledging that their mother’s tragic death would continue to haunt them.
The circumstances surrounding Farrant’s potential early release had sparked outrage and concern among Ms Hoskins’ family earlier this year when officials indicated that Farrant was being considered for compassionate leave due to a terminal cancer diagnosis. A Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (Mappa) meeting convened in April to assess the case, raising hopes for closure and justice among the victims’ loved ones.
Farrant’s criminal history paints a chilling portrait of violence and recidivism. After serving a 12-year sentence for rape and other offences, Farrant’s release in 1995 culminated in a reign of terror, culminating in the brutal assault of Ann Fidler and the subsequent murder of Glenda Hoskins just weeks later.
Following Ms Hoskins’ murder, Farrant fled, sparking an international manhunt that eventually led to his capture in the south of France. Despite his capture and subsequent imprisonment, Farrant’s death has evoked mixed emotions among those affected by his crimes, underscoring the enduring trauma inflicted by his actions.
In response to Farrant’s passing, a Prison Service spokesman affirmed that the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman had been notified, adhering to protocol for deaths in custody.
As Farrant’s victims grapple with the aftermath of his demise, questions linger about the efficacy of the justice system and the emotional toll exacted by violent offenders like Farrant. Though his death marks the end of a chapter, the scars left by his crimes serve as a sobering reminder of the enduring impact of violence and loss.
