The mother of a teenager who was viciously dismembered and discarded in a trash bin is determined to prevent his murderer from being released because “he still refuses to reveal the location of my son’s head.”
Jean Hartley’s son Christopher was brutally murdered by Stuart Diamond on December 30, 1997, at the age of 17. Christopher’s mutilated body parts were found in a bin behind a hotel in Blackpool, but his head remains missing after almost three decades.
Despite being deemed too dangerous for release from prison following his conviction in 1999, a review board will soon assess the possibility of granting parole to Diamond. Jean Hartley, aged 74 from Liverpool, will present evidence to oppose his release.
Describing the devastating impact of her son’s murder on their family, Jean expressed her determination to ensure Diamond remains incarcerated, stating, “Every day I mourn my son. Our family was torn apart. I will ensure Diamond never walks free, despite the fear of encountering him.”
Christopher, the fourth child of Jean, was known for his playful nature and mechanical skills. Having moved to Blackpool in 1997, he planned to return home permanently in 1998. However, his life was tragically cut short when he accepted Diamond’s offer of shelter on the night of December 30.
Diamond, a convicted killer with a history of violence, lured Christopher to his residence and brutally murdered him. Despite extensive investigations, Christopher’s head was never recovered, intensifying Jean’s anguish and desire for justice.
The ongoing parole review for Diamond has sparked renewed anguish for Jean, who remains resolute in her fight for her son’s memory. She emphasized the danger she believes Diamond poses to society, citing his refusal to disclose critical information about her son’s remains as a clear sign of his unreformed nature.
As the parole hearing approaches, Jean’s determination to speak on behalf of her son and advocate for public safety remains unwavering. The Parole Board’s upcoming assessment will play a crucial role in determining Diamond’s potential release based on his current mental state and risk assessment.