A spokesperson for the Parole Board said:
“Following four oral hearing days and a dossier of evidence of over 2,000 pages, the Parole Board refused the release of Colin Pitchfork and did not recommend a transfer to open conditions.
Parole Board decisions are solely focused on what risk a prisoner could represent to the public if released and whether that risk is manageable in the community. The panel of the Parole Board were not satisfied that he no longer posed a risk to the public, and accordingly did not direct his release.
A panel will carefully examine a huge range of evidence, including details of the original crime, and any evidence of behaviour change, as well as explore the harm done and impact the crime has had on the victims.
Evidence from witnesses such as probation officers, psychiatrists and psychologists, officials supervising the offender in prison as well as victim personal statements may be given at the hearing. Parole reviews are undertaken thoroughly and with extreme care.
Protecting the public is our number one priority.”