Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy has personally intervened to block the transfer of a convicted killer to an open prison, following a controversial Parole Board recommendation.
A Brutal Attack in a Bakery
The case centres on Jake Fahri, now 36, who was given a life sentence in 2009 for the murder of 16-year-old Jimmy Mizen. The horrific crime took place on 10 May 2008 at the Three Cooks Bakery on Burnt Ash Hill in Lee, South London.
During a confrontation, Fahri threw an oven dish at Jimmy. The dish shattered upon impact, with shards severing blood vessels in the teenager's neck, leading to his death. Fahri was ordered to serve a minimum of 14 years.
Recall Over Drill Music and a Blocked Transfer
Fahri was released on licence in June 2023 but was swiftly recalled to prison in January 2025. This recall came after The Sun newspaper reported he was producing drill music under the alias 'Ten', with lyrics appearing to reference Jimmy Mizen's murder. Tracks were available on platforms like Spotify and YouTube.
Despite initially disputing the music was about his own life, Fahri later admitted to the Parole Board that he was the artist in the videos. The board subsequently decided he should not be released but could be moved to an open prison, citing a need for him to reflect on his "attitude, thinking and behaviour".
This recommendation has now been overruled. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson stated: "Public protection is our top priority, which is why the Deputy Prime Minister has blocked Jake Fahri's transfer to open conditions."
Family's Relief and Concerns Over Conduct
Jimmy Mizen's mother, Margaret, 73, told The Sun she was "shocked" by the Parole Board's suggestion but relieved by Mr Lammy's decision. She believes it proves Fahri has not reformed.
"He got into the witness box at his trial and lied through his teeth. Clearly, he hasn't changed, and I'm glad the Justice Secretary has seen through it," she said.
The case attracted further attention when, while out on licence, Fahri was reportedly photographed wearing a balaclava alongside England footballer Marcus Rashford. Rashford later stated on social media that he did not know Fahri and would never refuse a fan photo.
The decision underscores the stringent conditions for open prison transfers, which require a low risk of absconding, and highlights the ongoing impact of Jimmy Mizen's murder on his family and community.
