Sammy Woodhouse, a survivor of the Rotherham grooming gang, has expressed her disgust with the Government after learning that Arshid Hussain, described as one of the most dangerous men in the UK, may be released early from prison. The Ministry of Justice, as part of Labour's sentencing reforms, is considering releasing Hussain, who was sentenced to 35 years in 2017 for rape and other offences.
Victims Terrorised by Letters
Victims across the country are receiving letters informing them of potential early releases, causing widespread fear and chaos. Ms Woodhouse stated, 'Due to the Sentencing Act 2026, Arshid Hussain – the man who abducted and raped me as a child, and who did the same to dozens of other children – is being considered for early release. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison in early 2017 and was described as one of the most dangerous men in the UK. He was later convicted of further offences. His brother, Basharat Hussain, is also being considered for release. I honestly can’t put into words how disgusted I am with the British Government.'
Labour's Sentencing Reforms
Under Labour's plans, killers and rapists could be released early, while 43,000 criminals would avoid jail entirely. Many offenders would serve only a third of their sentence, and those sentenced to four years or more would be released after serving 50%. Ms Woodhouse was first attacked at age 14, falling pregnant after being plied with drugs and alcohol, raped, and threatened at gunpoint. The Hussain brothers, who poured petrol over victims, are said to have 'owned' South Yorkshire for over a decade.
Another Survivor Speaks Out
Fiona Goddard, another grooming gang survivor, has also criticised Labour, stating that justice is being 'snatched away.' She received a letter informing her that her abusers could be released after serving just 33% of their sentences. Under Labour's proposals, over 90% of offenders convicted of child grooming and over 60% of rapists would be allowed early release. Ms Goddard plans to move house, saying, 'I’ve been serving a sentence every day of my life.'
Political Reactions
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch called Ms Goddard 'one of the bravest people I’ve ever met' and criticised the Government for breaking promises to victims. Shadow justice minister Dr Kieran Mullan warned that the reforms would lead to thousands of dangerous offenders being released early, retraumatising victims. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson defended the changes, stating they are necessary to fix a prison system in crisis and that dangerous criminals will remain locked up, with increased supervision for those released.
