Tracy Venison, whose son Aidan was killed by a drink-driver, has stated she feels "insulted" and "betrayed" after learning her son's killer may be moved to an open prison. Toby Spiring, 28, was sentenced to eight years in October 2025 after pleading guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.
Aidan Venison was 19 when Spiring's vehicle collided with his motorcycle near Wisborough Green, West Sussex, in June 2024. Spiring is now eligible for consideration for a move to a Category D prison, which offers the possibility of day release and opportunities for inmates to reconnect with family, according to the Probation Service.
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) stated that "Public protection is our priority, and prisoners are only moved to lower-security conditions following a thorough risk assessment." Tracy Venison said she was "utterly shocked" by the news and expressed concern that prison overcrowding might be a factor in the potential move.
Spiring had a previous conviction from July 2018 for drug-driving and driving while uninsured. Tracy Venison is now campaigning for lifetime driving bans for those who cause death by dangerous driving.