The family of Julie Butcher, who was murdered by her ex-husband Richard Butcher, have expressed their trauma after police provided them with a photograph of her killer upon his release from prison, showing him openly smiling. Julie Butcher was strangled to death by her ex-husband in 2005 in Swindon, after he lured her to his home. He pleaded guilty to the crime and was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 13 years.
Release and Distressing Photograph
Upon Richard Butcher's release in October 2020, Julie's sister, Emma King, was handed the photograph by police liaison officers, who themselves apologised for its inappropriate nature. The image, which depicted Butcher smiling broadly, caused significant distress to the grieving family. This incident prompted Emma King to launch a campaign for what she calls 'Julie's Law'.
Campaign for Julie's Law
Julie's Law proposes the establishment of national guidelines for offender photographs used within the criminal justice system. The aim is to ensure that such images follow a neutral identification format, similar to passport photos, to prevent further emotional harm to victims' families. The Ministry of Justice has issued an apology for the distress caused by the photograph, stating that such images are provided only when necessary for victim protection purposes.
In addition to her campaign, Emma King has founded the Swindon Sisters Alliance, an organisation dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence. The alliance seeks to provide resources and advocacy for those affected by similar tragedies, honouring Julie's memory through action and awareness.
