“Justice, at last.” — After 30 long years, Denise Fergus has finally been given a moment she never thought she’d see. The decision to deny Jon Venables parole has been described as the most powerful step toward justice for her son, James — and for parents everywhere who refuse to give up – GMT – G1

In December 2023, the Parole Board rejected Venables’ bid for release, ruling he remained a danger to children due to his “long-term sexual interest in children,” history of secrecy, and inability to be honest with probation officers. Denise Fergus described the decision as “the best thing that has happened to me in 30 years,” expressing “pure relief and elation.” She told reporters: “I have fought for justice for James… this is a huge day for us.” The ruling allowed her family a brief respite, with Fergus noting it was the first time the system had “gone my way.”

Adding to the tension is speculation around a “shocking new move” from Venables. While no official appeal against prior denials has materialised recently, insiders suggest he may challenge aspects of his ongoing detention or push aggressively in the upcoming hearing. Past patterns show Venables has exploited legal avenues, including refusing to attend hearings if family representatives are involved. In 2023, he boycotted his own parole evidence session for this reason. Reports from prison sources describe him as manipulative, with one claiming he “feels like a celebrity” and views himself as wronged.

Denise Fergus has been vocal in her opposition. Through the James Bulger Memorial Trust, she campaigns tirelessly, launching a victims’ helpline in March 2025 on what would have been James’s 35th birthday. “This is mental torture for me,” she said earlier this year upon learning of the latest review. “What’s changed? He’s got a lifelong record of reoffending.” Fergus vows to submit powerful victim impact statements and fight for Venables to remain incarcerated, insisting he is a “monster” who should never be freed.

The case has prompted broader reforms. Successive governments have tightened parole rules for serious offenders, introducing ministerial veto powers and greater victim involvement. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has reportedly assured the family she opposes release. Public protection remains paramount, with experts noting Venables’ risks – including potential progression to contact offences – make freedom unlikely.

Yet the family’s anguish persists. Ralph Bulger, James’s father, has described the recurring hearings as “endless trauma.” Brothers of James have spoken of never forgiving Venables. Public sentiment echoes this: petitions and campaigns demand full life terms for such crimes.

As 2025 draws to a close, the upcoming parole decision looms large. For Denise Fergus, another denial would reaffirm the 2023 triumph – a small but powerful victory for her son and all parents seeking justice. But the threat of reversal underscores the fragile nature of closure in this enduring tragedy. James Bulger’s story is not just about loss; it’s a reminder of resilience, the cost of forgiveness in the justice system, and the unyielding pursuit of accountability.

In Fergus’s words from two years ago: “We can finally enjoy Christmas now.” This year, with the hearing approaching, that joy is tempered by uncertainty. The nation watches, hoping the Parole Board once again prioritises safety over second chances for a man who has squandered them all.