Vlassakis Set for Parole After 27 Years | Johannesburg News

Australia’s most chilling murder case is back in the spotlight as James Vlassakis, convicted in the “bodies in the barrels” killings, prepares for release after serving over 27 years. The gruesome discovery of 12 dismembered bodies in abandoned bank barrels shocked the nation in 1999 and later inspired an award-winning film. Vlassakis, the youngest of three convicted men, admitted to four murders and testified against his co-conspirators, receiving a 26-year minimum sentence. His parole was initially granted but overturned — until a legal challenge restored the decision. A review commissioner found no credible risk to public safety, paving the way for his release under strict conditions, despite the horrific nature of the crimes and the fact that one of his accomplices remains behind bars for life. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Sources:https://iol.co.za/news/world/2026-09-16-australian-bodies-in-the-barrels-killer-granted-parole/ More coverage & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/cb1fd1938be07183 Report issues to [email protected].