In a decision that has sparked outrage and concern, Steven Ling, the convicted killer who brutally murdered Joanne Tulip in 1997, has been approved for release by the parole board. Ling, a farm worker, was sentenced to life imprisonment in December 1998 for the violent killing of Tulip, a 29-year-old woman, in Stamfordham, Northumberland. The crime, committed on Christmas Day the previous year, involved Ling stabbing Tulip 60 times during a sexual assault.
Initially sentenced to serve a minimum of 20 years, Ling’s term was reduced to 18 years by a High Court judge in 2009. Despite his long sentence, Ling is now poised for release following a public parole hearing held in July. During this hearing, Ling was allowed to present his case privately, while two psychologists testified in favor of his release, citing a manageable risk level and progress made during his imprisonment.
Doreen Soulsby, Tulip’s mother, has vehemently condemned the parole board’s decision. She expressed deep concerns for public safety, particularly regarding women and girls, stating, “I’m just worried sick for the safety of women and girls on the streets that this man should be in the community. If he sees a pretty girl walking down the street, what’s he going to do? He might not reoffend straight away, but he will reoffend.”
The Parole Board’s decision summary explained that Ling’s release was deemed necessary for the protection of the public based on his progress and a comprehensive risk management plan. Ling’s release will be subject to standard and additional conditions, including GPS tracking for 12 months, restrictions on electronic device usage, and exclusion zones to prevent contact with the victim’s family.
The decision has ignited a heated debate about public safety and the effectiveness of parole systems in managing high-risk offenders. As Ling prepares to re-enter society, many are left questioning the adequacy of the measures designed to protect the public from potential reoffending.