In a decision that has sparked widespread controversy, Jack Shepherd - the man convicted of killing 24-year-old Charlotte Brown in a horrific speedboat crash on the Thames - has walked free from prison after being granted parole.
A Tragic Night on the Thames
The case dates back to December 2015, when Shepherd took Charlotte Brown on a first date that ended in tragedy. The web designer from Rochester had purchased the speedboat to "pull women" and was showing off to his date when the vessel capsized near Wandsworth Bridge.
Both were thrown into the cold waters of the Thames, but while Shepherd survived, Charlotte Brown was pulled from the river unconscious and later pronounced dead in hospital.
International Manhunt and Conviction
Shepherd's behaviour following the incident drew significant criticism. After being charged with manslaughter by gross negligence, he fled the country while on bail and was eventually convicted in his absence in July 2018.
An international manhunt ensued before Shepherd eventually handed himself in to authorities in Georgia in January 2019. He was later extradited back to the UK to serve his six-year sentence.
Controversial Release Sparks Outrage
The Parole Board's decision to release Shepherd after he served just a few months of his most recent prison term has provoked anger from Charlotte Brown's family and renewed debate about sentencing for serious crimes.
This marks Shepherd's second successful parole bid, having previously been released in 2020 before being recalled to prison for unrelated offences.
Ongoing Legal Battles
Shepherd's legal troubles are far from over. He continues to face separate charges related to an alleged assault on a former girlfriend, with a trial scheduled for next year.
The case has raised serious questions about accountability and justice, particularly given Shepherd's pattern of behaviour both before and after the tragic incident that claimed a young woman's life.
As Shepherd begins his life outside prison walls once more, the Brown family continues to mourn their daughter, whose life was cut short on what should have been a memorable first date.
