Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy has personally intervened to block a convicted killer's transfer to an open prison, following allegations the inmate released rap music glorifying his murder of a schoolboy.
Parole Board Recommendation Overturned
Jake Fahri, now 36, was serving a life sentence for the 2008 killing of 16-year-old Jimmy Mizen. He was released on licence in June 2023 but was recalled to prison in January 2025. The Ministry of Justice acted after learning The Sun newspaper was preparing to publish a story alleging Fahri had produced drill music referencing the crime.
The Parole Board subsequently considered his case and, while deciding he should not be fully released, recommended a move to an open prison. These facilities have minimal security and allow eligible prisoners to spend much of their day outside on licence. The panel stated Fahri needed to "reflect on his attitude, thinking and behaviour" and believed this could be achieved in open conditions.
A Horrific Crime and Ongoing Pain
Fahri was convicted in 2009 and given a minimum term of 14 years for murdering Jimmy Mizen on 10 May 2008. The fatal attack occurred during an altercation in a bakery in south London. Fahri threw a glass oven dish at Jimmy, which shattered and severed blood vessels in the teenager's neck, causing fatal injuries.
The recent controversy centres on claims that Fahri is the masked drill artist known as 'Ten', who had been showcased on BBC radio station 1Xtra. Tracks allegedly by the artist, available on platforms like Spotify and YouTube, appeared to reference Jimmy's death. While Fahri initially disputed the music was about his own life, the Parole Board summary noted he later accepted he was the artist in the videos.
Family Relief and Ministerial Priority
Jimmy's mother, Margaret Mizen, 73, told The Sun she was "shocked" by the Parole Board's recommendation and expressed gratitude for Mr Lammy's decision. She said it demonstrated Fahri had "not changed his attitude".
"I would much prefer this decision didn’t have to be made because he would have turned his life around. I’m really sad that he hasn’t," Mrs Mizen said. "He got into the witness box at his trial and lied through his teeth. Clearly, he hasn’t changed, and I’m glad the Justice Secretary has seen through it."
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson stated: "Jimmy Mizen’s murder was a horrific crime and our thoughts remain with his friends and family. Public protection is our top priority, which is why the Deputy Prime Minister has blocked Jake Fahri’s transfer to open conditions."
The case also drew attention due to a reported photograph of Fahri, wearing a balaclava, with England footballer Marcus Rashford while Fahri was on licence. Rashford subsequently stated on social media that he did not know Fahri and would never refuse a fan photo, but was unable to background-check every individual.
