JAMES BULGER KILLER JON VENABLES COULD BE FREE WITHIN WEEKS — NEW PAROLE HEARING SPARKS FURY

More than three decades after the murder of two-year-old James Bulger, one of the men responsible could once again be facing freedom.

Jon Venables, now 44, has been granted a fresh parole hearing this month — and four days have reportedly been set aside for the hearing. The unusually long hearing has raised fears among James’ family that Venables could potentially be released or transferred to a less secure prison before the end of October.

Venables and Robert Thompson were just 10 years old when they abducted James from a shopping center in Bootle, Merseyside, in 1993. The case shocked Britain and became one of the most notorious crimes involving children in the country’s history.

Both were eventually released in 2001 under lifelong anonymity. But Venables’ story did not end there.

He has since been recalled to prison twice after being found in possession of child abuse images. His most recent parole bid, in 2023, was rejected after experts concluded that he continued to pose a risk to children. The Parole Board cited ongoing concerns, including what it described as “sexual preoccupation.”

Now, the prospect of another release has reopened painful questions for James’ family.

James’ mother, Denise Fergus, had asked for the latest hearing to be made public, arguing that greater transparency could help combat misinformation surrounding the case and allow the public to better understand how parole decisions are made. However, the Parole Board rejected the request, saying a public hearing could make it difficult for Venables to give evidence because of concerns about his safety.

James’ father, Ralph Bulger, has also strongly criticized the decision to keep the hearing private. He believes the family’s feelings are being pushed aside while officials consider Venables’ future.

The upcoming hearing could therefore become a major turning point. If parole is granted, Venables could potentially leave prison within weeks. If it is refused, he would remain behind bars while his risk continues to be assessed.

For James’ family, however, this is about far more than a parole decision. It is another painful reminder of a case that has remained in the public spotlight for more than 30 years.

Will Jon Venables finally be allowed to walk free? What evidence will the parole panel consider this time — and why has the latest hearing been given four days despite his previous parole refusal?

Read the full story for the latest developments, the family’s reaction and what could happen after Venables’ new parole hearing.

Source: The Sun