Emotional Justice Secretary vows to Joanna Simpson’s family to do all he can to keep wife killers in prison
AN emotional Justice Secretary Alex Chalk yesterday vowed to do all he could to keep a wife killer behind bars.
Mr Chalk made the pledge to friends and family of Joanna Simpson, 46, who was attacked by Robert Brown in 2010.
He appeared upset as he told the BBC: “I will do everything I can within the law to keep people safe and to ensure there is justice in this case.
“But the family has my word and Hetti, her friend, has my word — we will do everything we can to keep her safe.”
British Airways pilot Brown was acquitted of murder, having admitted manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility.
He is due to be released on licence in November after serving 13 years of a 26-year sentence.
He will not face a Parole Board.
Mum-of-two Joanna’s pal, Hetti Barkworth-Nanton, said: “We were very encouraged to hear the Justice Secretary make a firm commitment to keep the public safe.
“However, the only way to truly keep the public safe is to make sure that Robert Brown remains behind bars.”
Joanna’s mum, Diana Parkes, said: “Urgent action to block his release must be taken. I pray common sense will prevail.”