Demons like these must stay inside

THE parole system is in urgent need of reform.

Last year double-murderer and rapist Colin Pitchfork was let out of prison, then immediately breached his licence.

This disturbing case should have proved to be a vital lesson for the justice system.

But it hasn’t been learned. Because in November, monstrous Patrick Mackay - the Devil’s Disciple - is up for a hearing.

He is a triple murderer and suspected of eight more.

Mackay is also Britain’s longest serving prisoner.

And the news that he has a chance at freedom, however unlikely, has stunned the families of his victims.

There must, of course, be an opportunity for prison to be a place of rehabilitation.

Grieving

But it some cases, surely, that is impossible.

Pitchfork is a prime example of someone with whom chances cannot be taken. Mackay is cut from the same cloth.

The parole board need not take time with their decision. Read what those grieving relatives say and the verdict is easy.

MP Gareth Johnson, whose Dartford constituency was once home to Mackay, says he should never be released. He urges justice minister Dominic Raab to keep him inside at all costs.

And author John Lucas - who wrote the book on this beast says Mackay is a manipulative psychopath who remains a danger. The parole board have a number of considerations when a prisoner is up before them.

Among them: “The impact the crime has had on the victims.”

That should be enough, if there is any sense in the justice system, to keep this beast caged.