Relief as Victorian serial killer Paul Denyer remains behind bars

Paul Denyer, convicted over the murder of three young women in 1993, became eligible for parole last month.

Frankston serial killer Paul Denyer being taken away by police.

Frankston serial killer Paul Denyer’s parole has been denied.

Family and friends of Denyer’s victims — Deborah Fream (22), Natalie Russell (17) and Elizabeth Stevens (18) — were told on Wednesday he would not walk free from prison after he became eligible for parole on April 11.

He was initially sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of the brutal 1993 murders, but that was overturned to a 30-year minimum term six months later by the Court of Appeal three decades ago.

Victorian Liberal Democrat Upper House MP David Limbrick, who was dating Russell at the time of her death, welcomed the news.

“This is what we have campaigned for, to try and make sure parole was denied,” he said.

“It‘s a relief in one respect. We are concerned that parole can be reapplied for over and over.

“This whole experience has been traumatic for victims and families of Denyer. All along our goal has been to make sure he can never harm another woman the way he harmed Natalie.”

Mr Limbrick said he is “thankful” Denyer will not be released, but called for change to the way victims’ families are kept in the loop on the parole process.

“(The Adult Parole Board) have had strict legal restrictions around what they can and can‘t do. I think they have communicated within their limitations, which means not a lot,” he said.

“I know the Victorian Government is looking at justice reform. In particular, communication with victims of crimes, especially serious crimes like this should be a focus.”

Russell’s parents, Brian and Carmel Russell, were contacted by the Department of Justice late last year to alert them Denyer would be eligible for parole on April 11.

Last month, Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews urged the Adult Parole Board to ensure they were in close contact with families of Denyer’s victims, following reports they had been kept in the dark about whether or not he would be released.

“I‘ve said in the past, he is where he belongs. But his status is a matter for the Adult Parole Board and I think they would be well aware of community sentiment on this,” he said.

Victoria’s Adult Parole Board said it could not comment on individual cases. In a statement, it reported prisoners who are classified as serious violent offenders or sexual offenders must have their application considered by two separate board panels to ensure a “higher” level of scrutiny.