RICHARD MORTIMER RELEASED IN DEWSBURY: FAMILY OF VICTIM FEARS FOR SAFETY

In December 2017, Richard Mortimer, the man responsible for the tragic death of 12-year-old Steven Mullins, was released from custody after serving a lengthy prison sentence. Mortimer's release has sparked outrage and deep concern among the Mullins family and the local community in Dewsbury, where the crime took place.

Back in November 1982, Steven Mullins was walking home from Birkdale High School, taking a shortcut through Caulms Wood, when he was suddenly attacked by Mortimer, then 37 years old and battling alcoholism. Mortimer's assault was brutal; he strangled Steven using his school tie, leading to the boy's death. The investigation revealed that Mortimer had fled the scene, going into hiding in Scotland, where he reportedly attempted to attack two other children. It was only weeks later that police apprehended him back in Dewsbury.

During his time on the run, Mortimer had shaved off his beard to avoid recognition. Despite this, staff at the Park Hotel in Earlsheaton, near where Mortimer's late mother lived and less than a mile from the Mullins family home on Pennine Road, identified him. His capture was a relief to many, but the subsequent legal proceedings revealed disturbing details. When Mortimer finally changed his plea to guilty at Leeds Crown Court, the emotional toll was evident; Steven Mullins' father, Michael Mullins, had to be restrained as he attempted to attack his son's killer.

Now, with Mortimer's release on license, the Mullins family is gripped by fear. Michael Mullins, aged 67, expressed his unwavering belief that Mortimer poses a continued threat. He stated, “If they let Mortimer free, he will strike again. Wherever that man is in the country, no children are safe. He should never be freed.” The family has been told that Mortimer has been transferred to an 'open' establishment, a halfway house where he will gradually reintegrate into society. However, they feel they have been left in the dark about the specifics of his placement.

They received a map indicating that Mortimer is excluded from Dewsbury town centre, but the Mullins family lives just half a mile outside of town, near Caulms Wood—the very area where Steven was murdered. Michael Mullins questioned the logic behind this, saying, “Why would they send us a letter and a map saying he can’t go in Dewsbury town centre if he wasn’t somewhere in the vicinity?” He expressed his fears for the safety of local children, including his grandchildren, emphasizing that no child is truly safe while Mortimer remains at large.

Michael Mullins has been outspoken about his feelings, stating, “I said it on the day it happened and I’ve vowed it every day since, but if ever I see Richard Mortimer, I will kill him. It’s my turn now—let’s see if he can face a man and not a vulnerable child.” He also criticized the authorities for not consulting the family about Mortimer’s release, only informing them that he has been moved from a Category B to a Category D facility, where he will have escorted visits and eventually be allowed to walk freely without supervision.

He questioned the lack of transparency, asking, “We’ve asked why he served 30 years when his recommended tariff was 16. We’ve asked for reassurances that he can’t return here, but no one will give us answers. We’ve never even been told exactly what he did to Steven.”

Reflecting on the profound impact of the crime, Michael Mullins said, “Mortimer took our son and he left us with a life sentence—a whole life sentence, not just 30 years. I don’t care what happens to me, but if I ever get my hands on that man, I will kill him.” The community and the family remain deeply concerned about the potential danger Mortimer poses, and the debate over his release continues to evoke strong emotions in Dewsbury.