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Joanna Simpson’s killer Robert Brown challenges decision to keep him behind bars

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Brown’s lawyer argued that proper ­policy was not followed because of the high-profile nature of the case
Brown’s lawyer argued that proper ­policy was not followed because of the high-profile nature of the case

A BA pilot who killed his estranged wife with a hammer has challenged the decision to block his release from prison.

Robert Brown killed Joanna Simpson, 46, in Windsor, Berks, on Halloween 2010.

Robert Brown is launching a legal bid against Justice Secretary Alex Chalk's decision to keep him behind bars eiqetidzeieprw
Robert Brown is launching a legal bid against Justice Secretary Alex Chalk's decision to keep him behind barsCredit: PA
Victim Joanna Simpson's mother has said she fears for her family's safety should Brown be released
Victim Joanna Simpson's mother has said she fears for her family's safety should Brown be releasedCredit: Dan Charity

He was due to be let out in November after half his 26-year sentence.

But Justice Secretary Alex Chalk used “powers to detain” to keep him behind bars.

It came after The Sun launched its Justice For Joanna campaign last year.

From tongue scraping to saying no, here are 12 health trends to try in 2023From tongue scraping to saying no, here are 12 health trends to try in 2023

A Judicial Review started today at London’s High Court with lawyers for Brown, 60, arguing that proper ­policy was not followed because of the case’s high-profile nature.

It was revealed that before a decision was made Mr Chalk had received letters from 220 MPs expressing their concern over the case.

Brown’s lawyer Philip Rule KC told London’s High Court: “There was no open mind being applied by the time you get to making a decision.

“This matter does not seem to leave the top of the pile for the minister because of the attention it is receiving.”

The hearing continues tomorrow.

Joanna’s mum Diana Parkes has said she ­worries for her family’s safety should Brown be released on licence.


Julia Atherley

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