Snowtown Killer James Vlassakis could be freed next month

·

James Spyridon Vlassakis, one of the key perpetrators in the notorious “bodies in the barrels” Snowtown murders, could be released from prison next month.

According to The Advertiser, the South Australian Parole Board is set to consider his application on August 5.

Vlassakis, who pleaded guilty to four murders in 2002, received a life sentence with a non-parole period of 26 years. Now 45, he has spent over two decades behind bars.

His victims included his half-brother and stepbrother, and he later gave key evidence that helped convict co-offenders John Bunting and Robert Wagner – both of whom are serving life sentences without parole.

Parole Board chair Frances Nelson told The Advertiser Vlassakis’ institutional behaviour had been “very good” and acknowledged that “he did give evidence against the other two perpetrators, which was quite brave, really.”

She added, “We have asked the Department for Correctional Services to give us what I call a through-care plan… how might he best be resocialised, because he has been in prison for a very long time.”

Frances Nelson says prisoners with life sentences have their case reviewed by the parole board annually. ABC News. Lincoln Rothall
Frances Nelson says prisoners with life sentences have their case reviewed by the parole board annually. Photo: ABC News/Lincoln Rothall.

While no guarantee has been given, Nelson noted it was likely a decision would be made at the August meeting.

Vlassakis’ image and imprisonment details have remained suppressed for over 20 years due to ongoing safety concerns. His story inspired the 2011 award-winning film Snowtown, which dramatised the crimes from his perspective.

Unlike co-conspirator Mark Haydon – who was released on parole in 2024 – Vlassakis would remain under parole conditions for life if granted release.

A state government spokesperson stressed that “James Vlassakis is a life-sentenced prisoner” and would continue to be monitored indefinitely if freed.

Source: The Advertiser

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Spiro Pappas honoured at Emirates Business Awards 2025 for Sustainable Innovation

Entrepreneur Spiro Pappas, Founder and CEO of Eureka-Tec, was honoured at the Emirates Business Awards 2025.

Oakleigh grandfather’s 40-year lottery dream comes true with $1 million win

An Oakleigh man spotted his lottery numbers printed in the newspaper, revealing a $1 million Weekday Windfall win.

Strong Australian presence at opening of 1st Global Summit of Hellenic Lawyers in Athens

The Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece, was transformed into a vibrant microcosm of the Greek Australian community on Monday evening, July 7.

St George Saints show fight against league-leading Tamworth

St George Men’s White team faced one of their toughest tests of the season, hosting reigning champions Tamworth Thunderbolts.

Dean Bouzanis returns to A-League with Brisbane Roar signing

Brisbane Roar have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2025–26 Isuzu UTE A-League season by signing goalkeeper Dean Bouzanis.

You May Also Like

Nick Kyrgios breaks silence after alleged gunpoint robbery of his car

ACT Police have raided a home believed to be connected to the alleged gunpoint robbery of Nick Kyrgios' Tesla in Canberra.

‘I am flattered’: Dr Peter Gianoutsos on his Australia Day honour

Retired respiratory physician Peter Gianoutsos, 82, was one of those recognised in the 2022 Australia Day Honours List.

Helen Andrianakis: Insomnia more than just a side effect, it’s a societal problem

Insomnia should be treated no differently than other mental health illnesses. Left unmonitored, it has proven to be “extremely dangerous” to our bodies.