Tracey Connelly, known for her role in the tragic case of Baby P, is set to face a public parole hearing on October 22-23, 2025, after a judge recognized the significant public interest surrounding her case.

Connelly was imprisoned in 2009 for allowing the death of her 17-month-old son, Peter, due to severe abuse inflicted by herself and her partner, who received a 12-year sentence for his involvement.

After being released in July 2022, Connelly was deemed at low risk of reoffending, despite a history of manipulative behavior and previous denials of her parole applications in 2015, 2017, and 2019.

However, her release was short-lived, as she was recalled to prison in September 2024 for breaching her license conditions, during which she faced bullying that adversely affected her mental health.

The decision to hold a public hearing was influenced by two applications citing her case as a significant child protection failure in the UK, which has sparked ongoing discussions about safeguarding.

Judge Rook emphasized that a public hearing would help reassure the public regarding Connelly's risk assessment and management if she were to be released.

The decision to release Connelly has been met with public scrutiny, prompting former justice secretary Dominic Raab to call for a fundamental overhaul of the parole system after his appeal against her release was denied.

Connelly's lawyer opposed the public hearing, raising concerns about her safety and the potential exacerbation of her mental health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

Connelly pleaded guilty to causing or allowing the death of a child and has been recalled to prison multiple times for violating her parole conditions.

The Parole Board's vice chair, His Honour Peter Rook KC, stated that while Connelly's current risk of violence is low, her risk could increase if she gains access to children under certain conditions.

At 44 years old, Connelly is assessed to be at a 'high' and 'potentially imminent' risk to children, particularly if her mental health deteriorates or if she engages in unhealthy relationships.

The upcoming parole hearing will examine various evidence regarding Connelly's behavior and the impact of her crime, with a strong focus on public safety.