A notorious criminal previously identified as the most serious sex offender in the UK is potentially facing release back into society after a recent review of his case by the Parole Board. The review allowed Kevin Lakeman’s hearing to be conducted in private, citing concerns about his well-being due to potential stress and anxiety from a public hearing, despite objections from his victims regarding his possible freedom.
Lakeman, now aged 63 and from Sunderland, was sentenced to life imprisonment for multiple sexual assaults in 1995, with a minimum term of 12 years. His case was re-evaluated when an additional 90 potential victims came forward, leading to him being recognized as the country’s worst sex offender at that time.
Originally accused of 30 sex offenses at Newcastle Crown Court, Lakeman received four life sentences and served 24 years in prison for two rapes and an attempted rape before being released on parole in 2019, only to be re-incarcerated shortly thereafter. Further investigations in 2018 and 2019 revealed around 30 additional potential charges against him.
All the crimes he was convicted of took place at night and involved threats with a knife. Despite objections, Lakeman was granted parole in January 2019, prompting the establishment of exclusion zones in areas of his prior assaults and near his victims’ residences.
One victim expressed dissatisfaction with Lakeman having access to information about her residence, highlighting the detrimental impact of the assault on her life, including struggles with substance abuse, mental health issues, and difficulties in maintaining employment and relationships.
Following concerns about his conduct, Lakeman was taken back into custody in March 2019. Despite requests for a public hearing, the Parole Board decided to hold the proceedings in private, considering the gravity of his offenses and the lasting harm inflicted on numerous individuals.
The Board examined multiple allegations against Lakeman, noting significant similarities in the modus operandi, threats involving a knife, geographical proximity, and other factors, raising doubts about his credibility and honesty.
The hearing took place on October 29, with a ruling anticipated within two weeks. The Parole Board emphasized that decisions are primarily made based on assessing the risk a prisoner poses to the public if released and whether such risk can be managed effectively in the community.
Extensive evidence and reports, including victim statements, are carefully reviewed during parole hearings to ensure a thorough evaluation of the offender’s behavior and potential risk to society. Public safety remains the top priority in the parole review process.
