Notorious prisoner Charles Bronson, one of the UK's longest-serving inmates, likened his parole hearing to the television show 'The Apprentice' during a public session on Wednesday. The 70-year-old, who has been in prison for most of the last 55 years, told the hearing: 'It's like being on The Apprentice.'
An independent psychologist commissioned by Bronson's legal team told the hearing that Bronson suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and 'will always value violence', but argued he would pose less of a risk if released than he does currently behind bars. The psychologist said Bronson 'looks back on events in a romanticised way' and should be treated with 'compassion'.
Bronson's personal officer at HMP Woodhill testified that he has never felt threatened by the inmate, describing him as 'mellowed' and consistent over the past four years. The officer said Bronson has a good support network and that his 'life has not yet started', adding: 'I can't see him getting out and doing something stupid because he knows that would be his last chance.'
The hearing also heard that Bronson, who has been incarcerated since 1968, has never used a cash machine, as ATMs were introduced in the UK after his imprisonment. A closed hearing is scheduled for Friday, where Bronson will outline his plans for the future. A decision on his release is expected within 14 days.
