Notorious Killer Sams Denied Parole Again Despite Claims of Reduced Risk
81-Year-Old Murderer Stays Behind Bars
Sams, now 81, was handed a life sentence back in 1993 for the brutal murder of Leeds teen Julie Dart and the terrifying kidnapping of Birmingham estate agent Stephanie Slater.
Parole Board Rejects Release Plan
The Parole Board reviewed a release plan from Sams’ probation officer. It included strict rules on his movements, activities, and contacts, plus a requirement to stay in approved accommodation for months. But the panel decided the plan wasn’t tough enough to keep the public safe.
No Open Prison Move for Sams
The board also ruled out transferring Sams to an open prison. This would have meant lower security and occasional community access. Despite reviewing his offending history and progress in custody, they found he still posed too great a risk. Sams attended the hearing but refused to give evidence.
Gruesome Crimes Still Haunt Parole Panel
- In 1992, Sams kidnapped Stephanie Slater, locking her handcuffed, gagged, and blindfolded inside a coffin-like box within a wheelie bin in his workshop. He demanded a massive £175,000 ransom for her return.
- The year before, he had kidnapped Julie Dart in a similar fashion before murdering her with a hammer.
- Sams was finally caught when his third wife recognised his voice during a Crimewatch broadcast on the BBC.
Previously given a minimum 25-year term, Sams failed to downgrade his security risk in 2012. In his latest court fight, he claimed the threat he posed to female prison staff had lessened over time. The Parole Board wasn’t convinced and insists Sams must remain locked up.
