Corinne Mitchell, the mother of convicted murderer Luke Mitchell, has died at the age of 67. Her death was confirmed by a group campaigning for her son’s acquittal, which stated she was laid to rest in a private service.
Luke Mitchell was jailed for life in 2005 for the murder of his 14-year-old girlfriend, Jodi Jones, who was killed in woodland in Dalkeith, Midlothian, two years prior. He has consistently denied any involvement in the murder and lodged a special defense of alibi. The judge set a minimum sentence of 20 years.
Corinne Mitchell was a prominent figure in the campaign to clear her son's name, frequently asserting her belief that he was a victim of a miscarriage of justice. She launched a fundraiser last year, stating that critical evidence had been ignored, untested, or destroyed, and expressed that it might be their final chance to secure his release.
Mitchell became eligible for parole in April 2024, having served the minimum term. However, his parole has been denied twice, with concerns cited about him being a sexual risk to women. Multiple appeals against his conviction and sentencing have also been rejected.
Mitchell's trial in 2005 was the longest single-accused case in Scotland at the time, lasting 42 days. The campaign group announced Corinne Mitchell's death on July 9, 2026, noting her unwavering love and support for Luke.
In a social media post, the campaign group stated that Corinne Mitchell remained determined and resilient despite her own health challenges. They pledged to continue pursuing the truth and honoring her memory by carrying forward the cause she championed. The group also conveyed a message to Luke, expressing hope that he knows he is not alone and that many people will continue to stand beside him.