Michael Steele, convicted in the Essex Boys murders, is set to be released after serving his life sentence.
Steele and Jack Whomes shot the men. The victims were Pat Tate, Tony Tucker, and Craig Rolfe. This happened in December 1995 in Rettendon. They sat in their Range Rover.
Steele and Whomes both said they were innocent. They claimed they had nothing to do with the murders. A Sky documentary series covered the case last year.
Whomes also received a life sentence. But his prison term was reduced in 2018. He was released in 2021 at the age of 59. Steele tried to get released many times. Each request consistently failed through the years. He originally came from Great Bentley.
The Parole Board now says Steele can be freed. They mentioned his progress while in prison. They reviewed other evidence at recent hearings. The board thinks he won’t harm the public. Steele must follow release conditions. They include wearing an electronic tag. He must surrender his passport. He cannot own a boat, plane, or firearm.
Steele is 82 years old. He will stay in prison for 21 days. The decision could get overturned during this time. A Parole Board spokesperson talked about the decision. They said the panel directed Steele’s release after a hearing. They only focus on public safety and manageable risk.
The panel looks at lots of info. They check the original crime details. They also look at behaviour changes. The panel explores the harm done to victims. The Parole Board uses witness evidence. They hear from probation officers and psychiatrists. They also hear from prison officials and victims. They question everyone at the hearing.
The board reviews cases thoroughly. Public safety is the top priority.