The final perpetrator involved in the murder of Sophie Lancaster is scheduled to be released from prison following a decision by the parole board that he has effectively addressed his history of violent behavior.
Sophie, aged 20, was brutally assaulted while trying to protect her boyfriend Robert Maltby from a group of intoxicated youths at Stubbylee Park in Bacup, Lancashire on August 11, 2007. The assailants boasted about leaving “two moshers nearly dead” after targeting the couple due to their alternative appearance.
The term “mosher” was commonly used back then to refer to individuals who were fans of hard rock or heavy metal music. Tragically, Sophie’s mother had to make the heartbreaking decision to switch off her life support two weeks later on August 24, as she was declared beyond recovery. Sophie passed away shortly after, while Robert Maltby survived the assault.
Ryan Herbert, a resident of Bacup, and Brendan Harris were both given life sentences in 2008 for their involvement in the brutal and prolonged attack that resulted in Sophie’s death. Herbert was released in 2022, and now, following a review, the Parole Board has decided that Harris is also eligible for release.
During the parole hearing, Harris admitted to consuming alcohol before the attack, taking responsibility for initiating the violent altercation. He also acknowledged his past tendencies towards violence.
The Parole Board’s assessment highlighted the factors that increased the risk of Harris reoffending, including his lifestyle choices and social influences. Harris had a history of substance abuse and struggled with managing intense emotions, often acting impulsively without considering the consequences.
Despite past misconduct, the panel noted Harris’ progress in addressing his violent behavior while in custody. He participated in specialized programs aimed at helping individuals tackle various challenges and had shown positive conduct during his sentence.
Harris has been granted release on license by the Parole Board, subject to specific conditions. These conditions include residing at a designated address, maintaining good conduct, adhering to an enhanced supervision program involving drug testing, a specified curfew, scheduled signing-in times, and alcohol monitoring.