DHA insists due 'risk management' done after claims double murderer allowed day out

Peter Newbery allegedly allowed out of prison for a 'beach day'

The Department of Home Affairs has stressed that 'risk management underpins all work done with prisoners'.

It's after concerns were raised to Manx Radio that a double-murderer has been allowed to leave the grounds of Jurby Prison.

The families of Peter Newbery's victims allegedly were informed that he had been allowed out of prison for a 'beach day' today (Friday 15 August) with 'a tag on'.

He was denied parole for the second time in June.

In 2002 the abattoir worker killed 16-year-olds Samantha Barton and George Green.

On being informed he had been allegedly authorised to go on a day trip, Samantha's family told Manx Radio it was ''messing with the families' heads'', adding: "Sammy will never have a day out in life, let alone [be able to go to] a beach".

A DHA spokesperson told Manx Radio: "The Department of Home Affairs cannot comment on individual cases.

"All prisoners are subject to a rehabilitation process which varies according to the nature of the crime and the length of sentence. 

"The Prison and Probation Service works closely with the police, forensic psychologists and the charity Victim Support during a rehabilitation process. Risk management underpins all work done with prisoners.

"The Department also ensures that support and information is offered, where appropriate, to those people affected by crime."