David Gibson’s Parole Bid for Wife’s Murder
David Gibson, a convicted killer who smothered his wife with the assistance of his father, is set to present his case for parole at an upcoming hearing. He maintains that he has reformed and should be released from prison.
Conviction and Notable Case
In 2004, David Gibson was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his wife, Belinda, who was 32 years old at the time.
The murder took place in their Southampton home, where Belinda pleaded for mercy as David, with the aid of his father Leslie, held her down.
Notably, this case drew national attention as it resulted in a conviction for murder without the discovery of the victim’s body.
Chilling Details of the Murder
During the trial at Winchester Crown Court, it was revealed that Belinda’s last words to David were ‘Dave, I love you.’
Despite her plea, David Gibson proceeded to smother her with a pillow. Following the murder, they stripped her, stored the body in their garden shed, and later disposed of it at sea using Leslie Gibson’s inflatable boat, weighted down with a concrete block.
Concealment and Denial of Murder
At the time of the trial, both David and Leslie Gibson denied the murder and claimed they had seen Belinda walking away from their home.
The court heard that the murder had been meticulously planned by David, driven by his desire to continue an adulterous relationship with a neighbor.
Case Resurrection and Conviction
The plan to murder Belinda was canceled briefly when David Gibson reconciled with his wife.
However, it was revived a year later and executed by David, a garage worker, and his father.
After the murder, David disposed of Belinda’s possessions and even used her mobile phone to create the impression that she was alive.
Charges and Guilty Verdict
Hampshire Police became suspicious of the Gibsons but initially lacked sufficient evidence to prosecute them.
It took two years of detective work to gather enough evidence for charges. In July 2004, after a six-week trial, both David and Leslie Gibson were found guilty of murder.
Minimum Terms and Parole Hearing
Mr. Justice Silber, during sentencing, ordered David Gibson to serve a minimum of 18 years and 9 months before being considered for parole, emphasizing the planning and the denial of a proper burial for Belinda.
Now, David Gibson, aged 52, is preparing for his second parole hearing, scheduled for November 28. He will seek release on license or request a transfer to an open prison.
Parole Board Process
The Parole Board’s focus is on assessing the risk a prisoner might pose to the public if released and whether this risk can be managed in the community.
The decision is based on extensive evidence, including details of the original crime, behavior change, and the impact on victims.
Witnesses, including probation officers, psychiatrists, psychologists, and victim personal statements, are heard during the hearing.
The decision is made with the utmost care, prioritizing public safety.
Leslie Gibson’s Parole Recommendation
In 2018, Leslie Gibson was recommended for parole. However, it is unclear whether he is still alive at this time.