Paragraph 1: A Sister’s Plea for Justice
Joan Robinson, haunted by the brutal murder of her sister, Jean Whitfield, 25 years ago, is desperately fighting to keep her sister’s killer behind bars. Michael Wade, a convicted rapist and murderer, is scheduled for release despite serving a life sentence with a minimum term of 20 years. Joan’s world crumbled when Wade, a drifter Jean had kindly allowed into her home, repaid her generosity with unimaginable violence. He beat, raped, and drowned Jean in her own bathtub, leaving her partner, Dennis Fallon, to discover the horrific scene upon returning from work. The impending release of this "monster," as Joan describes him, has ripped open old wounds and ignited a fierce battle for justice.
Paragraph 2: The Nightmare of Impending Release
The Parole Board’s decision to release Wade has left Joan reeling. She argues that his completion of prison programs addressing sexual offending and alcohol problems does not guarantee his rehabilitation. Joan believes that his inherent nature remains unchanged and that he poses a grave danger to society, convinced he "will kill again." The thought of Wade walking free, potentially preying on other unsuspecting women, fills her with terror and reignites the trauma she has endured for decades. She questions the efficacy of a life sentence if it doesn’t truly mean life imprisonment, especially in cases as brutal as her sister’s murder.
Paragraph 3: The Brutality of Jean’s Murder and Wade’s Past
Jean Whitfield, a vulnerable woman weighing just seven stone and suffering from arthritis, stood no chance against Wade’s savagery. His attack was not a spur-of-the-moment act but a calculated and brutal assault. After the initial attack, Wade returned to the scene, not to offer aid, but to ensure Jean was dead, highlighting the cold-blooded nature of his crime. His criminal record, riddled with convictions for violent and sexual offences, paints a chilling picture of a man predisposed to violence and misogyny. The details of his past, coupled with the horrific nature of Jean’s murder, underscore Joan’s fear that he remains a danger to women.
Paragraph 4: Joan’s Fight Against the Parole Board’s Decision
Joan has written a heartfelt letter to the Parole Board, detailing the devastating impact of her sister’s murder on her own life, including suicidal thoughts. She argues that Wade’s behavior within the controlled environment of prison is not indicative of his potential actions in the outside world. The absence of alcohol and female victims in prison does not prove he is reformed. She challenges the Parole Board’s ability to guarantee the safety of the public with his release, asking if they would personally welcome Wade into their homes, knowing his history.
Paragraph 5: The Lingering Trauma and Fear for the Future
The news of Wade’s potential release has resurrected Joan’s nightmares and fears. She lives with the constant dread that he will re-offend and destroy another family. Her plea extends beyond her personal tragedy; she urges women to be vigilant and aware of Wade’s identity and history should he be released. She believes that the system has failed her sister, herself, and all victims of violent crime. She advocates for greater public awareness of released offenders to protect potential victims.
Paragraph 6: A Call for Continued Vigilance and Justice
Joan’s fight is not just about keeping Wade behind bars; it’s about ensuring that justice is served for Jean and preventing future tragedies. She criticizes the lack of visible identification for released offenders, making it difficult for the public to be aware of their presence. Her campaign for awareness serves as a stark reminder of the need for continuous vigilance and the importance of advocating for the rights and safety of vulnerable individuals. Her unwavering determination to keep Wade incarcerated is a testament to her love for her sister and her commitment to preventing further harm. She lives in constant fear, unable to find peace knowing that the man who shattered her life may soon walk free.
