John Worboys, the notorious 'black cab rapist', has been denied parole for a second time, meaning he will remain in closed prison conditions. The Parole Board communicated its decision to his victims on Thursday, confirming that it had ruled against either releasing Worboys or allowing him to transition to an open prison environment.
Worboys was handed an indeterminate sentence for public protection in 2009, with a minimum term of eight years. He was convicted of 19 charges of drugging and sexually assaulting 12 women, including rape, sexual assault, and administering a substance with intent. Police believe he may have attacked more than 100 women between 2002 and 2008, using his taxi to pick up victims and offering them spiked drinks.
This marks the second time Worboys has been denied parole. His initial grant of parole in 2018 sparked widespread public outrage and a legal challenge from two of his victims. The High Court subsequently quashed the Parole Board's decision, ruling that it was irrational and procedurally unfair. This led to a fresh parole review process.
The Parole Board's latest decision follows a comprehensive review of Worboys' case, taking into account his behaviour in prison, his engagement with rehabilitation programmes, and the potential risk he poses to the public. The board's primary responsibility is to determine whether a prisoner can be safely released into the community.
For the victims of Worboys' crimes, this decision provides a measure of reassurance, ensuring he remains incarcerated. The case has previously highlighted the complexities and sensitivities surrounding parole decisions for high-profile offenders and the crucial role victims play in the justice system.