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Independent enquiry to be set up into Kitching release

An independent enquiry into the circumstances of Donovan Kitching's release from prison on parole is to be established.

The news has been confirmed this morning (Fri) in a statement from the Department of Home Affairs.

Prisoner risk assessments and the prisoner rehabilitation system have come under scrutiny following the conviction of Kitching for causing the death by dangerous driving of 62 year-old Hampshire woman Gwen Valentine.

Ms Valentine was hit by a car being driven by Kitching in April this year.

Following his sentencing yesterday, her family called for an independent investigation into why Kitching was released from jail early on parole and why his potential to reoffend went unnoticed by the prison authorities.

In its statement confirming such an inquiry is to be set up, the Department goes on to say it would be inappropriate to provide any further comment while this process is taking place. 

The Department of Home Affairs expressed its condolences to the family and friends of Ms Gwen Valentine.

 

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