Killer Branded 'Untreatable Psychopath' Who Murdered Dad Set for Prison Release
Reginald Wilson, 61, who brutally murdered father-of-three David Birkett in 1990, is now scheduled for release from prison, sparking significant controversy and warnings to the Parole Board. Wilson, who changed his surname to Zenshen, was previously described as having an "untreatable psychopathic disorder" by experts.
Violent Murder and Parole Board Decision
Wilson bludgeoned Dr David Birkett to death in Middlesbrough on February 3, 1990, in what Cleveland Police called the most violent attack they had ever investigated. The body was discovered by Dr Birkett's own daughter at their home on Cornfield Road in Linthorpe.
Despite two attempts by the Government to prevent his release, the Parole Board has denied these requests. The Secretary of State for Justice, Damid Lammy, opposed the move and asked for the decision to be reconsidered, which was refused. Lammy later requested the decision be set aside when new information emerged about Wilson stealing while in open prison conditions.
Political Backlash and Family Concerns
Andy McDonald, MP for Middlesbrough and Thornaby East, has strongly criticised the Parole Board's decision. "I am extremely concerned about this decision of the Parole Board," McDonald stated. "Whilst recognising their independence, I am fearful that they have made a grave mistake."
McDonald added that he has spoken with the family of Dr Birkett and remains convinced that Wilson should not be released. The MP has discussed with Justice Secretary Lammy whether any further steps to block the release are available, though he acknowledged the difficulty given the Parole Board's independence.
History of Violence and Psychological Assessment
At the time of the murder, Wilson was 26 years old and targeted Dr Birkett - a complete stranger to him - with the apparent aim of coming into contact with police officers. Before being caught, he mocked police with a note detailing his intention to "kill as many pigs as I can" and had compiled a list of police officers' names and addresses.
In 1991, Wilson was sentenced to life imprisonment at Durham Crown Court, with the judge declaring him so dangerous that he must die in prison. Psychological experts at the time described Wilson as a man who "killed for the hell of it" and warned he "would kill and kill again."
Recent Developments and Parole Board Rationale
Wilson has served more than 34 years for the murder and has been in open prison conditions since November 2023. Following his last review, the Parole Board stated that Wilson had made "good progress" in open prison conditions and that "no significant concerns" had been raised.
The judicial member of the Parole Board acknowledged that Wilson had privileges removed and his permission to spend time outside prison was temporarily suspended after the theft incident. However, they maintained this offending did not indicate an increase in his risk of causing harm.
The Parole Board's summary decision stated: "After considering the circumstances of his offending, the progress made while in custody and the evidence presented at the hearing, the panel was satisfied that imprisonment was no longer necessary for the protection of the public."
The Parole Board operates independently from the Ministry of Justice, which has been contacted for comment regarding this controversial decision.
