The victim’s family of Robert Brown, a former British Airways pilot convicted of killing his estranged wife Joanna Simpson in 2010, is preparing for his upcoming parole hearing. Brown, now 61 years old, will face a Parole Board panel in the coming days, although the hearing will be conducted privately despite concerns raised by Joanna’s mother, Diana Parkes.

Scheduled for April 23 and 24, Brown will undergo questioning by professionals during the two-day Parole Board assessment. Diana Parkes and advocate Hetti Barkworth-Nanton expressed their anticipation of this event, noting that Justice Secretary Alex Chalk had previously referred Brown’s case to the parole board in 2023.

Describing Joanna as a kind and loving individual who is deeply missed, the family shared their sentiments ahead of the parole hearing. Brown had fatally attacked Joanna at their home in Windsor, Berks, in the presence of their children, just days before their divorce was to be finalized. He was sentenced to 26 years in prison for manslaughter, citing adjustment disorder as a defense.

Despite Brown’s previous attempt for early release being thwarted by Justice Secretary Alex Chalk, a subsequent legal challenge in early 2024 was dismissed by the High Court. The court deemed that there were legitimate concerns about Brown posing a significant risk to public safety, based on his lack of remorse and non-compliance with probation requirements.

Joanna had sought legal advice in 2007 after Brown accused her of infidelity, ultimately leading to their separation. Brown’s refusal to engage with authorities and complete necessary rehabilitation programs further underscored the potential risks associated with his release. Joanna’s tragic death remains a painful memory for her family, who continue to advocate for Brown to remain incarcerated to protect both their own safety and that of the wider community.