Life Prisoner David Harker Denied Parole Under Tough New ‘Helen’s Law’
David Harker, serving life for the 1998 manslaughter of Julie Paterson in Darlington, has become one of the first killers blocked from release under the new Helen’s Law. Partial remains of 32-year-old Julie, a mum of four, were found dumped in a bin liner a month after she vanished – but the rest of her body remains missing.
Dismembered Body Found, But Harker Keeps Secrets
A murder probe was launched after parts of Julie’s dismembered body were discovered hidden in a garden hedge. Police believe Harker strangled Julie in his flat. Shockingly, he even bragged about eating some of her remains with pasta, but has never revealed where the rest of her body lies.
Harker pleaded guilty to manslaughter due to diminished responsibility and was jailed for life at Teesside Crown Court in 1999. The judge recommended a minimum of 14 years before parole could be considered.
Helen’s Law Cracks Down on Silent Killers
Named after murdered Helen McCourt, whose killer Ian Simms was freed without revealing where he hid her remains, Helen’s Law makes parole harder for killers who refuse to cooperate.
The law, which took effect this January after years of campaigning by Helen’s mother Marie McCourt, means the Parole Board must now weigh a prisoner’s cooperation – or lack of it – with investigations when deciding on release.
“Killers still might be freed if no longer a danger, but silence counts against them,” a source said.
Harker’s Parole Bid Rejected – Next Chance in Two Years
The Parole Board confirmed on Tuesday that Harker’s application was rejected but gave no details on why. He won’t be eligible for another parole review for about two years.
This case highlights the fresh bite of Helen’s Law – a powerful new tool in the fight for justice and closure for victims’ families.
