Overview
- Diamond, 48, detained at Ashworth high‑security hospital since his 1999 conviction, was cleared for community release subject to residence, curfew, supervision, exclusion zones and behaviour conditions.
- Parole documents cite reduced risk tied to an absence of recent violence, improved ability to manage conflict and a structured routine, alongside past risk factors including substance misuse and impulsivity.
- The decision follows a deferred conditional discharge granted by a mental health review tribunal in February 2025 while community care arrangements were prepared.
- Victim Christopher Hartley’s mother, Jean Hartley, condemned the move and said the family lacks closure because Diamond has never revealed the location of her son’s severed head.
- The family has launched a petition seeking changes to parole rules for murderers detained in psychiatric hospitals, as the Ministry of Justice notes hospital detention does not shorten life‑sentence minimum terms.