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

Cyprus War Memorial Committee launched in New South Wales

The Cyprus War Memorial Committee was officially launched this week. Read more via The Greek Herald about what it is.

The Greek Herald honoured by Mark Coure MP at Community Recognition Morning Tea

The Greek Herald was formally recognised by NSW Member for Oatley, Mark Coure MP, at a special Community Recognition Morning Tea.

Areti Ketime to perform at Zeibekiko Festival Australia 2025

Acclaimed Greek singer Areti Ketime will travel to Australia this October to perform at the third annual Zeibekiko Festival Australia.

Mates, snakes and the complexities of Greek Australian friendships

In many Greek Australian households, children grew up hearing cautionary phrases like “View today’s friends like tomorrow’s enemies.”

Strengthening Cyprus–Australia relations: Andreas Gregoriou holds talks in Canberra

During a visit to Canberra, Andreas Gregoriou met with senior Australian officials to strengthen ties in agriculture.

You May Also Like

England hands Greece their first UEFA Nations League defeat

Curtis Jones made a memorable start scoring on debut to secure a convincing 3-0 victory over previously unbeaten Greece.

Andrew Liveris: Brisbane 2032 Olympics are ahead of schedule

Brisbane Olympics president Andrew Liveris spoke to the International Olympic Committee to address stadium plan for the 2032 Games.

SYRIZA leadership debate resolved without internal elections

SYRIZA's Stefanos Kasselakis brought clarity to the party's congress, stating "We're not heading for elections – the masks have fallen."