Murderer Jon Venables could be released from jail before Christmas but James Bulger’s dad has issued a plea to prison bosses to keep the ‘predatory paedophile killer’ locked up
The dad of murdered boy James Bulger has sent a heartfelt warning to justice chiefs about Jon Venables ahead of his possible release from jail.
Venables was 10 when he and Robert Thompson abducted and killed two-year-old James in 1993, in Merseyside. The killer is expected to appear before officials next month to try and have his parole granted. Venables was previously released from prison in 2001 but recalled to jail in 2010 and 2017, for child abuse images offences. James’ dad Ralph Bulger has pleaded with prison officials to keep the “predatory paedophile killer” locked up to protect the public.
READ MORE: James Bulger’s mum has dramatic plan for son’s killer at his parole hearingREAD MORE: James Bulger’s killer Jon Venables ‘scared’ to attend own parole hearing
Venables previously had a parole request denied in December 2023 as officials ruled the notorious murderer posed a risk and had not been honest with probation bosses. He was also refused parole in 2020.
Ralph, 59, warned that the murderer was still a threat to the public and should not have his parole granted, which could happen before Christmas.
The dad, speaking to The Sun, said: “Venables is more of a threat today than he ever was and he will be living next door to some poor innocent family if they let him go. He will kill again if he comes out.”
He added: “So many of today’s young families know nothing about the barbaric crime. Venables is protected by an anonymity order but unsuspecting communities are kept in the dark about him.”
James’ parents won the won the right to attend the parole hearing and give their impact statements. Ralph revealed he will not go in person but will give his statement either over a video-link or in writing.
The dad said it was important he speaks to the parole board as he sent a horrifying warning over potentially releasing the criminal. Ralph said: “I want him to hear me speak of the devastation he has caused, and I want him to listen as I tell the board that I know he will abuse and kill another innocent child.”
Brave Denise Fergus, speaking exclusively to The Mirror in May, said she wanted to be at the parole hearing to look her son’s killer “in the eyes and remind him I’m still here”.
Denise said: “This is mental torture for me. It was only December 2023 that his application was denied as he was not deemed fit for society. What has changed? He has a lifelong record of reoffending. When will we ever get respite from this? It makes it all flood back.”
She added: “I will do whatever it takes to sit in that hearing, look him in the eye and remind him that we are still here, we haven’t forgiven, and we will never give up. I also want any parole board to realise that this person has not changed and that I believe he will kill again if he is given any kind of freedom.”
