DHA 'can't comment' on parole hearing

Double killer's case heard on IoM yesterday

The Department of Home Affairs says it can’t comment on the parole hearing of a convicted killer.

It’s believed Peter Newbery’s case was heard on the Isle of Man yesterday (20 October).

He killed 16-year-old friends Samantha Barton and George Green in 2002; in 2004 he was jailed for life with a minimum term of 20 years.

The DHA has told Manx Radio it can’t comment on specific cases but would like to ‘make it clear’ that eligibility for parole does not guarantee it will be granted.

It adds in the case of prisoners serving a life sentence there is no automatic release.

All victims of serious and violent crime, the department says, are offered access to a victim liaison officer and have the opportunity to submit a statement to the Parole Committee.

The DHA adds: 'The Parole Committee consider a range of information from different sources to determine whether the offender’s risk to the public has reduced.

'Under our legislation, even if released, all life prisoners will be subject to licence conditions for the rest of their lives.

'This means if they breach the conditions they may end up back in prison.'

You can find out more about parole HERE.