Overview

• Jon Venables, convicted in 1993 for the murder of two-year-old James Bulger, has applied for parole again, with the process currently in its early stages.
• If referred to the Parole Board and approved, Venables could potentially be released by the end of 2025, though this remains unconfirmed.
• Venables has been recalled to prison twice since his 2001 release for possessing child abuse images, leading to widespread concerns about his rehabilitation.
• James Bulger’s family has expressed deep fear and frustration over the renewed parole process, calling for assurances that Venables will remain behind bars.
• Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has reportedly assured the family she opposes Venables’ release during her tenure, emphasizing public safety concerns.