Lorraine Thorpe, who holds the grim distinction of being Britain's youngest convicted female double murderer, will not be released from custody but could be transferred to an open prison facility. This decision follows a recent parole review that assessed her case and determined that while she is not yet suitable for full release, she may progress to less restrictive conditions.
Chilling Crimes Committed as a Teenager
Thorpe was just fifteen years old when she committed two separate murders in 2009. Her victims were her own father, forty-three-year-old Desmond Thorpe, and forty-one-year-old Rosalyn Hunt. The killings occurred in Ipswich and shocked the local community with their brutality.
Violent Details of the Murders
Rosalyn Hunt endured a prolonged and vicious attack over several days, during which Thorpe actively participated by kicking, punching, and stamping on her head. Desmond Thorpe, described as a vulnerable alcoholic, was smothered to death. Prosecutors argued this second murder was motivated by fears that he might inform police about the first killing.
Thorpe was convicted alongside forty-one-year-old Paul Clarke for her role in both murders. During the 2010 trial at Ipswich Crown Court, sentencing judge Mr Justice Saunders noted Thorpe's disturbing character traits, stating she could be manipulative and was not acting entirely under Clarke's influence. He remarked that she found violence amusing and entertaining.
Parole Board's Deliberate Decision
The Parole Board released its decision on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, after thorough consideration of Thorpe's case. Now thirty-one years old, Thorpe has spent her entire adult life behind bars since her conviction. The panel acknowledged her general maturation and the fact that she has not displayed violence or aggression for many years.
The board stated clearly: After examining the circumstances of her offenses, the progress she has made while incarcerated, and all evidence presented during the hearing, the panel unanimously agreed that Ms. Thorpe should not be released at this time.
Pathway to Potential Future Release
However, the panel determined that Thorpe's risk of violence toward others has diminished through her own actions in custody. They concluded she needs to be tested in less restrictive prison conditions before any future consideration for release. This means she may be transferred to an open prison where she would face fewer security measures while remaining under supervision.
Thorpe was originally sentenced to serve a minimum of fourteen years behind bars. Her accomplice, Paul Clarke, died in prison in 2014. While Thorpe now stands as Britain's youngest convicted female double murderer, the title of youngest female killer overall remains with Mary Bell, who was detained at age eleven in 1968 for the manslaughter of two young boys.
The Parole Board has indicated that Thorpe will be eligible for another review in the future, keeping open the possibility of eventual release if she continues to demonstrate rehabilitation and low risk in open prison conditions.
