The children of murder victim Glenda Hoskins are warning that her killer, Victor Farrant, poses a serious threat to the public if he is released. Farrant was sentenced to life in prison in 1998 for murdering Hoskins and attempting to kill Ann Fidler in Hampshire. Last month, Hoskins’ family was notified that Farrant was being considered for compassionate release due to a diagnosis of terminal cancer. The case is now with the prison governor, who will decide whether to make a formal application for Farrant’s release.
However, when Farrant was initially sentenced, the presiding Judge, Mr. Justice Butterfield, declared that he was too dangerous to ever be released. The condemnation aligned with the alleged lack of remorse Farrant has shown for his crimes. In response to the news that Farrant may be considered for release, the family of Glenda Hoskins issued a statement thanking the public and several MPs for their support. They further stated that they were “saddened and angry” at the mere possibility of Farrant’s release and what it represents.
The Ministry of Justice provided reassurances that Farrant would only be released on compassionate grounds in extraordinary circumstances, following rigorous assessments of the risk he poses. They have stated that no formal application from Farrant has been made in this case. It remains to be seen what the outcome of the governor’s decision will be.
Ultimately, the Hoskins family’s pleas demonstrate their belief that Farrant remains a danger to society. They fear that, if he is returned to the outside world, he may continue to attempt to victimize and hurt others, potentially with fatal consequences. It is the responsibility of the British justice system to ensure that those who pose a significant threat to public safety are kept behind bars to ensure that the public remains safe
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