He has been described as an ‘evil psycho’ triple killer who should never have been allowed out on day release.

His own revulsion of his predilection for men led him to carry out violent attacks on homosexuals, police said. He also harboured a deep hatred for paedophiles – which he tried to use to justify one of his killings.

So how was Ian McLoughlin permitted by the state to serve some of his prison sentences in an open prison, and even be allowed out twice on day release?

Chief inspector of prisons Nick Hardwick said no single element of procedure is to blame but highlights a catalogue of failings – mostly linked by a distinct breakdown in communication with a lack of information shared. When McLoughlin killed for a third time, not only had he been convicted of manslaughter and murder before, but it was the second time he failed to return to prison when allowed out on day release.

Yes, we have to believe that every prisoner can reform and should be given the chance to, but due care and attention needs to be taken – particularly when taking into account the serious and violent nature of his crimes.

It is unforgiveable that the justice system let down his victims in this manner – particularly for his third victim Graham Buck, who had moved from Sussex to Hertfordshire before he was killed.