Cult leader could be moved to open prison
A sex cult leader who preyed on children could be moved to an open prison in a recommendation by the Parole Board.
Colin Batley was jailed for a minimum of 11 years and was warned he could be behind bars for life in 2011.
The then 48-year-old was convicted of 35 charges after he operated as the self-styled high priest of the cult which he ran from a series of quiet homes in a cul-de-sac in Kidwelly, west Wales.
The Parole Board noted at the time of his offending he had an obsession with sex and "child abuse supportive beliefs" and showed a "callous disregard" for the feelings of victims.
But in the third review of his eligibility of parole on March 7, the panel heard of Batley's work to address his sexual offending and that his behaviour in prison was "exemplary".
Batley agreed his release "would not be a good idea" at this stage but that he wanted to build on his skills in an open prison.
Open prisons have minimal security and allow eligible prisoners to spend most of their day out of prison on licence, for example to carry out work or education.
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood will make the final decision whether to accept the Parole Board's recommendation for open conditions.
In a decision summary, a Parole Board spokesperson said: "The panel reflected on the gravity of the index offences and the profound harm caused to victims.
"Mr Batley had shown a commitment in prison to address his risk to others and had completed all recommended work.
"After considering the progress made and the evidence presented at the hearing, the panel was not satisfied that release at this point would be safe for the protection of the public.
"However, on considering the criteria for recommending placement in open conditions, the panel recommended that Mr Batley should be progressed in this way."