By The Parole Board has recommended the release of Steven Ling, who was jailed for life in December 1998 for the brutal murder of Joanne Tulip, 29, in Stamfordham, Northumberland. Ling, who admitted to stabbing Tulip 60 times during a sexual attack on Christmas Day 1997, has been in prison for 27 years.
Ling, who was 23 at the time of the murder, received a life sentence with a minimum term of 20 years, later reduced to 18 years by the High Court. The original sentencing judge, Mr. Justice Potts, described the crime as motivated by “an aspiration of sadism” and stated Ling should never be released if he continued to pose a danger to women.
Although a charge of rape was left on file during the original court case, meaning Ling is not officially classified as a convicted sex offender, the Parole Board’s ruling noted: “Mr Ling has always accepted that he raped the victim.”
This recommendation for release comes after Ling’s fifth parole hearing. Two psychologists testified in favor of his release, citing Ling’s enduring “shame” about his “monstrous” past. Psychologist A stated that Ling’s risk was “not imminent” and “manageable in the community,” while Psychologist B believed Ling “meets the test for release and no longer needs to be detained for the protection of the public.”
The hearing revealed that past risk assessments had identified several factors contributing to Ling’s attack on Tulip, including preoccupation with sex, interest in indecent exposure, capacity to use force for sexual gratification, entitlement towards sex, and a negative attitude towards women. Issues with Ling’s self-worth and self-esteem were also noted.
The decision has been met with controversy. Doreen Soulsby, the victim’s mother, branded the parole exercise a “farce” after it was ruled that the killer’s evidence could be given in private.
This case highlights the ongoing debates surrounding the rehabilitation and release of violent offenders, the effectiveness of long-term incarceration, and the balance between public safety and the rights of prisoners who have served their minimum sentences.
As the process moves forward, it is likely to face scrutiny from victims’ rights advocates, law enforcement, and the wider public. The final decision on Ling’s release will consider various factors, including his behavior in prison, risk assessment reports, and potential plans for his reintegration into society.
Credit: news.sky.com
