Steven Ling, who was convicted of the murder of 29-year-old Joanne Tulip in 1997, has been recommended for release by the Parole Board after his fifth hearing. Ling was sentenced to life imprisonment in 1998 for the brutal attack on Ms Tulip in Stamfordham, Northumberland. While a charge of rape was left on file during his original trial, the Parole Board noted that Ling has consistently accepted responsibility for the sexual assault.
At the time of his sentencing, the judge described how Ling had inflicted severe injuries on Ms Tulip during sexual activity, with sadism partly motivating the attack. Initially given a minimum term of 20 years, his sentence was later reduced to 18 years by the High Court.
During a public parole hearing held in July, two psychologists recommended Ling’s release, stating that his risk to the public could now be managed within the community. Despite the recommendation, Ms Tulip’s mother expressed her frustration with the parole process, particularly after it was decided that some of Ling’s testimony would be delivered in private.