Michael Sams, 84, one of Britain's most notorious murderers, is making his fourth attempt to be released from prison after serving 33 years for the crimes.
Sams was referred to the Parole Board for a potential release this year. His bid could be his last opportunity for freedom, as he faces the possibility of dying behind bars if denied again. He is arguing for his release or a move to an open jail.
Previous Parole Rejection
Sams' third parole bid was rejected in 2023, with the board deeming him too dangerous for release. At that time, the panel determined that his proposed release plan was not sufficiently robust to manage him in the community. He was given an additional eight-year sentence in 2005 for attacking a female probation officer with a metal spike.
Crimes and Convictions
Sams kidnapped and murdered 18-year-old Julie Dart in Leeds in 1991. He held her captive in a makeshift coffin before killing her. The following year, he abducted and raped 25-year-old estate agent Stephanie Slater, releasing her after a £175,000 ransom was paid. Slater, who died of cancer in 2017, was held handcuffed, gagged, and blindfolded in a box locked inside a wheelie bin at Sams' workshop.
Sams was given a life sentence in 1993 for the murder of Dart and the kidnapping and rape of Slater. He was ordered to serve a minimum of 25 years. He initially denied killing Dart but later confessed, admitting he used her as a "dummy run" for the abduction of Slater and had no intention of letting her live.
Parole Board Process
A Parole Board spokesperson stated that the review follows standard processes, with decisions focused exclusively on the risk a prisoner might pose to the public if released and whether that risk is manageable. The panel will examine extensive evidence, including details of the original crimes, evidence of behavioral change, the harm caused, and the impact on victims. This process involves reviewing hundreds of pages of documents and may include oral hearings where the prisoner and witnesses are questioned.
During his 2023 parole hearing, Sams was present but did not give evidence. The rejection was based on the inadequacy of his release plan, which included stipulations for designated accommodation and strict contact limitations.