Colin Pitchfork released from prison
Colin Pitchfork, who raped and murders two schoolgirls in the 1980s, has been released from prison.
He served 33 years in jail for raping and murdering Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth, both 15, in neighbouring villages in Leicestershire in 1983 and 1986 respectively.
Pitchfork is understood to have been released earlier today (September 1) and taken by police escort to “approved premises”.
In June, the Parole Board said it was safe to release the 61-year-old, who was the first murderer to be convicted using DNA evidence. The decision was challenged by Justice Secretary Robert Buckland but a judge-led review approved the original decision, clearing the way for the release.
He will be subject to a total of 36 licence conditions and will also have to wear an electronic tag, face restrictions on using the internet and be banned from going near relatives of his victims.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice said: “Our heartfelt sympathies remain with the families of Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth following the independent Parole Board’s decision to release Colin Pitchfork.
“Public safety is our top priority, which is why he will be subject to some of the strictest licence conditions ever set and remain under supervision for the rest of his life. If he breaches these conditions, he faces an immediate return to prison”.
