Tony Hudgell's biological father to be released from prison
Ms Hudgell said: "This man caused immeasurable harm to Tony - damage that will last a lifetime - and yet he walks free while the victim continues to carry the weight of his actions every single day. "There has been no remorse from Smith, no acknowledgment of the suffering he caused."Nothing about his behaviour suggests he has changed or taken responsibility."
Smith's release is subject to license conditions that include good behaviour, living at a designated address and disclosing developing relationships.The case was considered in an oral hearing on 19 June which took place via a video link. At the hearing, the panel took evidence from Smith's probation officer, the official supervising his case in prison, and a prison psychologist.Smith, 54, also gave evidence to the panel. In a statement, the Parole Board said: "After considering the circumstances of his offending, the progress made while in custody, the recommendations of witnesses and the evidence presented at the hearing, the panel was satisfied that imprisonment was no longer necessary for the protection of the public."
Smith previously lost a bid to be released on parole in June 2023.At the time, the Parole Board said there was a risk he would enter a new relationship and gain access to children.The board said then it was in the public interest that he remained in prison.
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