As for the 10 year old boys, The trial of Thompson and Venables was held in an adult court due to the severity of their crimes. The prosecution successfully argued against the principle that young children cannot be held legally responsible for their actions. This decision led to various complications, including appeals to the European Court of Human Rights.
In 2001, Thompson and Jon Venables were ‘released on licence’ after a parole board review determined they were no longer a threat to public safety. They were provided with new identities and supporting documents such as passports, national insurance numbers, academic qualification certificates, and medical records.
The then Home Secretary, David Blunkett, as part of the Release Licence, insisted on being sent daily updates of their actions. Other terms included restrictions on contacting each other or Bulger's family, a ban on visiting Merseyside where the murder too place, possible curfews, and regular reporting to probation officers. Any breach could result in their return to prison.
Given some of the parallels, I wouldn’t be surprised if Axel Muganwa Rudakubana and his parents would receive new identities if he is convicted. Axel to keep him somewhat safe in prison, and his parents to keep them safe from vigilantes. To me this seems likely considering the recent court appearance, where it was revealed he has an autism spectrum disorder and has had significant recent behavioural challenges.
Anyway, in 2010, Jon Venables contacted his probation officer, stating that he feared his new identity had been compromised at his place of work. When the officer arrived at his flat, Jon Venables was attempting to remove & destroy the hard drive in his computer. The computer was then taken away for examination. Child abuse material was found on his computer. Venables was returned to prison.
Maybe the British legal system will have the history of this in mind when deciding a sentence, should Axel be convicted.
Should anyone feel that they would want to know or research more of the Robert Thompson and Jon Venables case, prepare yourself for the horrific details of what you might read.
On a significantly more lighter note, I might consider posting something about the nonsense of the misguided and perceived correlation between murderers and thair star signs? Someone please give me strength!