The latest attempt by the uncle found guilty of the murder of Danielle Jones to secure his release has been denied. Stuart Campbell, who was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2002 for the abduction and killing of the 15-year-old girl, with a minimum term of 20 years, maintains his innocence despite ongoing searches failing to locate Danielle’s remains.
The Parole Board recently reviewed Campbell’s case without a formal hearing at his request and determined that he continues to pose a risk to the public. The Board highlighted Campbell’s refusal to disclose the whereabouts of the victim’s body as a significant factor in their decision to withhold his release.
Danielle disappeared on her way to a bus stop near her home in East Tilbury, Essex, in 2001. Campbell, who was married to Danielle’s aunt, was convicted of forcibly taking her in a van. Despite pleas from Danielle’s family, including her mother Linda, for Campbell to reveal the location of her body, he has not cooperated.
Campbell’s brother, Alix Sharkey, has also expressed his belief that Campbell should not be released until he discloses what happened to Danielle. The family continues to endure the anguish of not being able to lay her to rest. Danielle’s parents Tony and Linda have repeatedly implored Campbell to show remorse and provide closure by revealing the truth.
The case falls under Helen’s Law, enacted in 2021, which requires the Parole Board to consider whether a prisoner’s refusal to disclose information about a victim’s body should impact their release. Despite the law, Campbell’s refusal to cooperate has resulted in his continued imprisonment.