Family warns that granting compassionate release to murderer would be “absolutely reckless”

Glenda Hoskins was murdered in 1996 by her former boyfriend Victor Farrant, who was sentenced to a whole-life term in 1998. Recently, there have been discussions regarding the potential compassionate release of Farrant due to his terminal illness. However, Glenda’s son, Iain Hoskins, has spoken out against this, stating that Farrant is a dangerous individual who could potentially harm others if released from prison. The family has expressed their objections to Farrant’s release and believe that it would be a reckless decision to grant him early release.

Farrant has a history of violent offenses, including the murder of Glenda Hoskins and the attempted murder of another woman, Ann Fidler, for which he was sentenced to life in prison. Despite being told that he has terminal cancer and may have only a few months to live, the family is concerned about the potential risks associated with releasing him. They fear that Farrant could harm other individuals, not just their family. The family has been writing to their MPs and government officials to express their objections to Farrant’s release.

Iain Hoskins has raised concerns about how Farrant would be monitored if he were to be granted compassionate release. The family has not been provided with details regarding the supervision of Farrant, whether he would be staying at a hospice or other accommodation. They are worried about the potential consequences of releasing a dangerous individual like Farrant back into society. The decision regarding Farrant’s release will ultimately be made by the Justice Secretary after a panel meeting in early April.

The family believes that Farrant should not be granted the privilege of early release, especially considering the severity of his crimes. They have emphasized the impact of Glenda Hoskins’ murder on their family and believe that Farrant should serve his full sentence. Despite Farrant’s terminal illness, the family does not feel comforted by the prospect of his potential release and is concerned about the safety of others if he were to be freed. The Ministry of Justice has stated that no formal application for compassionate leave has been made in Farrant’s case, and that any decision would require strict risk assessments.

In conclusion, the family of Glenda Hoskins remains adamant in their opposition to the early release of Victor Farrant, who was convicted of murdering her in 1996. They believe that releasing Farrant from prison would pose a significant risk to public safety and fear that he could harm others if freed. The family has been vocal about their objections to Farrant’s release, writing to government officials and expressing their concerns. The decision regarding Farrant’s potential compassionate release will ultimately lie with the Justice Secretary, with the family urging that he be denied this privilege given the gravity of his crimes.