Mum loses bid to halt release
Mum Marie won fight for Helen’s Law
HELEN McCourt’s killer could be released from prison within days after his victim’s family lost a High Court bid to keep him locked up.
Mum Marie McCourt, 76, had hoped to keep Ian Simms behind bars while a judicial review was carried out into the Parole Board’s decision to free him.
The pub landlord murdered insurance clerk Helen, 22, in 1988 but her body was never found. Backed by the Mirror, Marie successfully campaigned for Helen’s Law, stopping killers being released until they lead the location of Helen’s remains. police to their victims’ bodies. And two High Court judges
Justice Secretary Robert yesterday refused to postpone Buckland vowed it will his release on licence. come in during this Marie’s husband Parliament after John Sandwell said: being twice delayed “We are obviously by elections. But in disappointed. November the Today was a small Parole Board ruled battle in the war.” Simms, 63 – jailed Simms could for life in 1989 – was have been released safe for release despite to a bail hostel as early refusing to reveal MURDERER Ian Simms as last night. But if
Marie’s legal challenge is successful he will immediately be recalled to prison.
Lord Justice Dingemans, sitting with Mr Justice Fordham at the High Court, said psychological reports suggest Simms is so convinced of his innocence that he will never tell his secrets.
The Ministry of Justice said: “We understand the pain and anguish the Parole Board’s decision has caused Marie McCourt and her family.” It added that Simms will be on licence for life.