John Actie, a man wrongfully accused of a horrific murder 36 years ago, now faces the daunting prospect of the real killer’s release. Living in Butetown, John walks past the scene of Lynette White’s brutal murder every day, a constant reminder of the injustice he endured as one of five men wrongly jailed for the crime. The imminent release of Lynette’s murderer, Jeffrey Gafoor, has reignited John’s pain and anger. Uninformed about the Parole Board’s decision to release Gafoor, John expressed shock and disbelief, likening the news to a physical blow. Determined to seek justice, John plans to appeal the decision within the 21-day window provided.
Gafoor, sentenced to life in 2003 for Lynette White’s murder, is now set for release following a Parole Board hearing. Despite previous refusals in 2016 and 2018, Gafoor’s progress in an open prison and the deemed manageability of his risk in the community have paved the way for his release. The decision has sparked outrage and concern, especially among those, like John, whose lives were shattered by the wrongful accusations.
The release conditions for Gafoor include residing at a designated address, maintaining good behaviour, disclosing relationships, adhering to supervision requirements, and undergoing monitoring such as electronic tagging and specified curfews. This news has reopened old wounds for the community, highlighting the tragic miscarriage of justice that saw innocent men imprisoned and the real killer evade justice for years.
The Cardiff Three, consisting of Stephen Miller, Tony Paris, and Yusef Abdullahi, were wrongfully accused alongside John before DNA evidence eventually led to Gafoor’s confession. The case revealed systemic failures and police misconduct, underscoring the importance of upholding justice. As John and others affected by the case continue their fight for truth and accountability, the community stands united in seeking closure and ensuring that justice prevails, even after decades of pain and injustice.