Jon Venables Granted New Parole Hearing Next Month

Jon Venables, one of the two men convicted of murdering two-year-old James Bulger in 1993, has been granted a new oral parole hearing expected next month, prompting renewed distress for the victim's family. The 43-year-old, who committed the crime at age 10 alongside accomplice Robert Thompson, could be released later this year if the Parole Board deems it safe.

The hearing marks the first time James's mother, Denise Fergus, will have access to observe proceedings, allowing her to hear Venables's voice for the first time since his trial more than 30 years ago. Fergus, 57, was informed of the decision earlier this week after the board reviewed written submissions from prison staff, counselors, psychiatrists, and impact statements from James's family. She will attend via video link from a secure location, separate from the main room to protect Venables's anonymity, though his voice will not be altered.

Fergus expressed deep anger and anxiety over the development in an interview. "It is distressing and frankly makes me angry that I've now been told that James's killer will be afforded a parole hearing and a chance of release," she said. "Surely this person has proved he cannot be...