The father of murdered toddler James Bulger has issued a stark warning to justice officials, urging them not to release his son's killer, Jon Venables, from prison. Venables could be granted parole before Christmas, a prospect that has prompted a heartfelt and horrifying plea from Ralph Bulger.
A History of Violence and Reoffending
Jon Venables was just ten years old when he and Robert Thompson abducted and killed two-year-old James Bulger in a crime that shocked the nation in 1993 in Merseyside. While initially released on licence in 2001, Venables has been recalled to prison twice for possessing indecent images of children, first in 2010 and again in 2017.
Venables is expected to appear before the Parole Board next month, seeking his freedom. However, his previous applications have been refused, in 2020 and again in December 2023, with officials ruling he remained a risk to the public and had not been honest with probation officers.
A Father's Desperate Plea
Ralph Bulger, 59, has spoken out forcefully against any potential release. He described Venables as a "predatory paedophile killer" who must be kept locked up to protect innocent families.
In an emotional statement to The Sun, Ralph Bulger declared, "Venables is more of a threat today than he ever was and he will be living next door to some poor innocent family if they let him go. He will kill again if he comes out."
He also highlighted the danger posed by the anonymity order protecting Venables' new identity, stating it leaves "unsuspecting communities... kept in the dark about him."
Families Vow to Confront the Killer
In a significant development, both of James Bulger's parents have won the right to participate in the upcoming parole hearing. Ralph Bulger confirmed he will submit an impact statement, though he plans to do so via video-link or in writing rather than attending in person.
He stated his intention is for Venables to hear directly about the lifelong devastation he caused. "I want him to listen as I tell the board that I know he will abuse and kill another innocent child," he said.
James's mother, Denise Fergus, has also vowed to confront Venables. Speaking to The Mirror, she expressed her determination to attend the hearing, look him in the eye, and remind him she is "still here." She questioned what could have changed since the last parole refusal, citing his "lifelong record of reoffending."
This case continues to raise profound questions about rehabilitation, public protection, and the lasting trauma inflicted upon the victims' families by the most shocking of crimes.
