Denise Fergus, the mother of James Bulger, has voiced her strong concerns to a parole board evaluating the potential release of Jon Venables, one of her son’s killers. Venables, now 43, was involved in the tragic abduction, torture, and murder of two-year-old James Bulger in 1993 alongside Robert Thompson. Initially sentenced to juvenile detention, both offenders were later transferred to adult prisons and have faced parole hearings.
Despite previous findings indicating Venables’ ongoing danger to society, he is seeking parole once again. Denise Fergus, aged 57, has expressed her distress and anger at the prospect of Venables being considered for release. She emphasized that Venables, now physically larger and more cunning, poses a grave risk if granted freedom.
Denise cautioned the parole board about Venables’ increased capabilities and potential future criminal behavior upon release. She highlighted her fears that Venables, who has a history of reoffending and manipulation, may struggle to adapt to life outside prison and resort to illegal activities to secure his return to a familiar environment.
Venables’ past release from prison in 2001, followed by subsequent re-arrests due to possessing child abuse materials, raises serious doubts about his rehabilitation and readiness for societal reintegration. The parole board’s previous assessments have underscored Venables’ admission of a persistent sexual interest in children, emphasizing the continued threat he poses.
As the parole review process unfolds, the board will meticulously evaluate the evidence to determine Venables’ risk level and potential impact on public safety. The in-depth examination will include insights from various professionals and witnesses, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of Venables’ case before a final decision is made.
The parole board’s paramount objective remains protecting the public from potential harm, underscoring the critical importance of thorough and meticulous evaluations in cases like Venables’.