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The evil stepfather responsible for the brutal torture and death of 17-month-old Baby P could potentially be released from prison in the coming months. Peter Connelly, the innocent child, was found dead in a bloodstained cot, suffering from over 50 injuries, including a broken back. This heart-wrenching case took place in 2007.
A Fresh Parole Bid
His stepdad, Steven Barker, who has a history of neo-Nazi activities, has launched a fresh bid for parole. Barker, now 47 years old, received a 12-year sentence for his role in Peter’s death. Additionally, he was handed a concurrent life sentence, with a minimum term of 10 years, for the rape of a two-year-old girl. This is reportedly Barker’s fifth attempt to secure his release.
Sources have revealed that a new parole hearing is expected to take place within months, as reported by the Mirror. Barker’s last bid for freedom was denied after psychiatrists stated that he had refused to participate in treatment programs.
Tragic Neglect
The case of Baby P brought to light the tragic failures of both the police and social workers, who made nearly 60 visits to his home in Haringey, North London, during the last eight months of his life. Shockingly, despite being on the at-risk register, officials were unable to save his life. A subsequent review determined that the authorities could have prevented his death.
One social worker, Nevres Kemal, had warned her superiors about the dire situation six months before Baby P’s tragic demise. However, no action was taken. Speaking to the Mirror, Kemal expressed her outrage, stating, “Barker has never shown any remorse and has no shame. This is outrageous. It was prolonged and systematic abuse. It is deeply shocking to think he could be released. How can anybody like this return to society when they have carried out the most heinous crime against the most vulnerable in society?”
A Tragic Legacy
Peter’s mother, Tracey Connelly, now 41 years old, was released from prison in 2022, having completed her sentence. Sadly, Baby P’s case was not an isolated incident. Statistics reveal that approximately 884 children have lost their lives in similar circumstances since this shocking crime captivated the nation.
Let us hope that justice prevails and that society remains vigilant to protect the innocent and vulnerable among us.
Source link: F5 Magazine