MP calls on Justice Secretary to appeal decision to semi-release violent criminal – and to protect victim   

Andrew George MP has called on the Justice Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, to use her powers to appeal against the Parole Board’s decision to move a seriously dangerous offender to an open prison. Constituent, Tina Nash has asked Andrew to go public about his intervention on her behalf. Tina suffered a horrific and life-changing attack 14 years ago when her former partner held her hostage, repeatedly violently attacked her, including blinding her and breaking her jaw and nose.  

Tina has since bravely spoken out about her experience and the extreme trauma she is now experiencing since learning about the perpetrator’s move to an open prison last month. He had been sentenced to life in prison in 2012, with a minimum term of just six years.  

Mr. George has written to Justice Ministers about the handling of her right to appeal these decisions and has now asked the Justice Secretary to appeal against the decision.  

“The primary purpose of prison must be public protection,” Mr. George said. “Any person capable of such appalling violence should remain behind bars until they are physically incapable of harming another person — even a fly.”  

He added: “I stand with Tina and all those who have suffered domestic violence. This decision is deeply concerning, and I will continue pressing the government to ensure victims’ voices and concerns remain at the centre of court and penal systems.”