Notorious Murderer Sams Denied Parole Again at 81
Brian Sams, 81, has been told he must stay behind bars. The convicted killer was handed a life sentence back in 1993 for the brutal murder of Leeds teenager Julie Dart and the chilling kidnapping of Birmingham estate agent Stephanie Slater.
Strict Release Plan Rejected by Parole Board
The Parole Board reviewed a release plan from Sams’ probation officer. It included tight controls on his movements, activities, and contacts, plus a requirement to live in specific accommodation for a long time.
But the panel ruled the plan wasn’t tough enough to keep the public safe. They concluded Sams can’t be managed safely in the community just yet.
Sams Fails to Qualify for Open Prison Transfer
The parole panel also studied whether Sams could move to an open prison. Such facilities have lower security and allow temporary releases into the community.
After considering his crimes, behaviour in custody, and evidence from the hearing — which Sams attended but chose not to speak at — the board decided he fails to meet the criteria for open prison transfer.
Sinister Past Behind Bars
- In 1992, Sams kidnapped Stephanie Slater, holding her handcuffed and gagged inside a coffin-like box locked in a wheelie bin at his workshop. He demanded a £175,000 ransom for her safe return.
- A year earlier, he had imprisoned Julie Dart similarly before murdering her with a hammer.
- He was caught after his third wife recognised his voice on BBC’s Crimewatch.
Risk to Women Prison Staff Still Too High
Sams was given a minimum 25-year term and failed to downgrade his security status in 2012. In his latest attempt at freedom, he argued before a High Court judge that he now posed less risk to female prison staff.
The Parole Board wasn’t convinced, deciding Sams should remain locked up indefinitely.
