A family whose daughter was murdered by Paul Denyer has spoken of its relief following the Victorian government’s move to restrict parole for serious offenders.
Brian Russell, father of Natalie Russell, had his first good night’s sleep in 30 years last night after hearing the news of the law change.
The Frankson killer was given three life sentences for the murders of Natalie Russell, Elizabeth Stevens, 18, and Debbie Fream, 22, in 1993.
His application prompted the loved ones of his victims to push for legal changes to stop him from making further applications.
“It was as if a weight had been lifted off us really,” Russell said.
Denyer was specifically named in the legislation, which was tabled in parliament today.
The legislation will mean he cannot be released from prison unless he is “terminally ill or incapacitated”.
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“The families of Natalie Russell, Elizabeth Stevens and Debbie Fream should not have to relieve their grief and that pain,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.
The laws will also limit bids for freedom for a mystery list of 32 other dangerous killers serving life sentences in Victoria.
Opposition Leader John Pesutto said the opposition would likely support the government’s bill.
“They’ve landed where we wanted them to be all along,” Pesutto said.
The reforms will spare victims and their loved ones the pain of repeatedly reliving their trauma.
“We are never going to have to open the paper first thing in the morning and see his ugly face, staring at us,” Russell said.
