Life-Sentenced Killer Denied Parole Under New Helen’s Law
David Harker, jailed for the manslaughter of Julie Paterson in Darlington back in 1998, has become one of the first inmates to be refused release under Helen’s Law.
Dismembered Body Sparks Murder Probe
Julie Paterson, a 32-year-old mum of four, went missing in 1998. A month later, her partial remains were found in a bin liner stashed in a garden hedge, sparking a murder investigation.
Police believe she was strangled in Harker’s flat. Shockingly, Harker once boasted he ate parts of her with a plate of pasta but never revealed where the rest of her body lies.
Helen’s Law Makes Parole Tougher for Uncooperative Killers
Harker admitted manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and was sentenced to life at Teesside Crown Court in February 1999, with a minimum 14 years before parole consideration.
Helen’s Law, named after Helen McCourt whose killer was freed without revealing her body’s location, came into effect in January. It toughens parole rules for prisoners who refuse to disclose a victim’s whereabouts.
While parole can still be granted if the prisoner is no longer a public risk, the law requires the Parole Board to weigh up the convict’s cooperation during their decision.
Harker’s Parole Bid Rejected
The Parole Board confirmed on Tuesday that Harker’s application was refused, though they have yet to detail the reasons behind the decision.
He can apply again in about two years’ time, but for now, Harker remains behind bars, paying the price for refusing to reveal the full truth about Julie Paterson’s remains.
