Charles Bronson, one of the longest-serving prisoners in the United Kingdom, is being considered for parole after spending over 50 years behind bars.
Charles Bronson, also known as Charles Salvador, has been incarcerated at HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes since 1974, when he was 21 years old and convicted of robbery, aggravated burglary, assault with the intent to rob, and possession of a firearm for the first time. His son, George Bamby, believes that his father deserves a chance to prove himself and that he should not have been imprisoned for 49 years.
Now 70 years old, Bronson is being evaluated by a Parole Board panel comprised of three judges who are hearing the case at HMP Woodhill while the press and general public watch proceedings via live stream from the Royal Courts of Justice in London.
Mr. Bamby stated that his father had “been a really naughty boy over the years and he has done some really bad things and I believe he should have been imprisoned for a long time” but had “not been in trouble in recent years.” He continued by stating that Bronson “deserves to get out” because he is “70 years old, an old man, and he wants to get out and do his art work.” He will not pose a threat to anyone.”
Bronson has become notorious for his attacks on prison staff and other inmates during his time behind bars. In 1994, he kidnapped a prison librarian and demanded an inflatable doll, a helicopter, and a cup of tea in exchange. He then took three prisoners hostage at Belmarsh Prison in London and a prison education worker hostage for 44 hours at HMP Hull, for which he was sentenced to a life sentence with a minimum of four years.
On Friday, the final day of the proceedings will be conducted behind closed doors so that confidential information can be discussed. The Parole Board will then decide whether or not Bronson should remain incarcerated at a later date.
This week, Charles Bronson, one of the longest-serving prisoners in the United Kingdom, had his parole hearing at HMP Woodhill. The 70-year-old has spent the majority of the last 50 years in prison and has become notorious for his attacks on prison staff and fellow inmates. George Bamby, the man’s son, believes that his father deserves a chance to prove himself and that he should not have been imprisoned for 49 years.
The panel of the Parole Board is considering whether or not Bronson should be released from prison. Press and the general public have been able to view proceedings from the Royal Courts of Justice in London via live stream, whereas the third and final day of proceedings will be conducted behind closed doors. The Parole Board will then make a subsequent determination.
If released, it will be the first time since 1974 that Bronson has experienced freedom. If he is released, his son hopes that his father will be able to pursue his art and won’t be a danger to anyone.
