The victim’s family of pilot Robert Brown, known as the “wife killer,” is preparing for his upcoming parole hearing. Brown, a former British Airways captain, brutally murdered his estranged wife Joanna Simpson in 2010. Despite pleas from Joanna’s mother, Diana Parkes, the parole hearing will be conducted privately.
Scheduled for April 23 and 24, Brown will face questioning from parole board professionals. Diana and advocate Hetti Barkworth-Nanton expressed their anticipation for this hearing, as it was expected following the referral by the then-Justice Secretary in 2023. They remembered Joanna as a kind and loving individual, deeply missed since her tragic death.
Brown’s heinous act occurred in Windsor, Berks, where he fatally assaulted Joanna in their home, in front of their children. Following years of abuse and just before their divorce was finalized, Brown buried her in Great Windsor Park. Despite being sentenced to 26 years for manslaughter, Brown’s release was delayed by the Justice Secretary in 2023.
In early 2024, Brown challenged the government’s decision to block his release, alleging political motives. However, the High Court dismissed his appeal, affirming the Justice Secretary’s concerns about Brown’s potential risk to the public.
During the legal proceedings, it was revealed that Brown displayed no remorse and posed a risk of reoffending due to non-cooperation with authorities. Joanna had sought legal advice in 2007 amid accusations from Brown, leading to their separation and eventual tragic outcome in 2010.
Diana emphasized the ongoing pain of losing Joanna and the fear of Brown’s potential release in the future. She hopes the Parole Board recognizes the danger Brown poses not only to Joanna’s loved ones but also to the general public, advocating for his continued incarceration.
