Drink-driver who killed girl denied move to open prison

Sharlotte was walking with her father in Norton Green when she was struck by the car in 2021

A drink-driver who killed a six-year-old girl has been refused a move to an open prison.

Six-year-old Sharlotte Naglis died after a car driven by John Owen mounted the pavement and hit her in Stoke-on-Trent in June 2021.

Owen's transfer to a Category D open prison was considered after serving 12 months of his six-year sentence.

Sharlotte's mother, Claire Reynolds, said she was "relieved" that the move had been denied.

"It is ridiculous - a year is no form of punishment when I've gone two years without my daughter," she said.

Ms Reynolds added Owen's transfer to an open prison should never have been considered.

"He should be really shameful and want to serve his punishment."

Claire Reynolds said she was "relieved" that John Owen was not being moved to an open prison

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson confirmed that Owen would not be moved to an open prison.

"This was an appalling crime and our heartfelt thoughts remain with Sharlotte-Sky's family and friends," they added.

Stoke-on-Trent MP Jonathan Gullis said he felt "sickened" when he discovered Owen was being considered for an open prison.

"Given that many feel John Owen's sentence was already shockingly lenient, this would have rubbed further salt into the wounds of everyone that was impacted by his selfishness," he said.

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