Overview
- The Parole Board refused to release or move David Harker to open conditions after a hearing on May 13 that assessed a 356‑page dossier and witness evidence.
- Harker was jailed for life in 1999 after being convicted of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and psychiatrists found a severe psychopathic disorder.
- Panel members heard from Harker’s prison manager, two probation officers, a psychologist and an intervention facilitator and recorded that none supported release or a transfer to open conditions.
- Prison records show no disciplinary findings since 2015 and participation in programmes to reduce violent tendencies, but Harker’s letters boasting of no remorse and his refusal to disclose where the victim’s remaining remains are buried weighed heavily on the decision.
- Harker has 28 days to ask for the decision to be referred back to the Parole Board and the unresolved location of Julie Paterson’s missing remains continues to prolong harm for her family and the local community.