Failed drug test keeps Jodi killer behind bars

His Supporters raise pressure for release

- RORY CASSIDY

CONVICTED killer Luke Mitchell has failed drug tests behind bars, stalling preparation for his freedom.

Mitchell was found guilty of killing his 14-year-old girlfriend Jodi Jones in 2003.

She was found stripped, stabbed and almost decapitated near her home in Dalkeith, Midlothian.

The murderer, who insists he is innocent, was ordered to serve at least 20 years in prison and could get out on parole next year.

In July 2021, Mitchell was moved from high-security Shotts jail in Lanarkshire to HMP Greenock, where he was housed in Chrisswell House - typically used to prepare long-term prisoners for progression to an open prison.

But plans for "community access visits" were withdrawn after Mitchell failed two random drug tests. His supporters now claim he could be facing a further three years inside before being considered for release.

A prison source said: "Mitchell came to Greenock in 2021 but has since been in bother where he's failed drug tests. He has also complained over decisions made about his requests to be allowed to visit his mum in Midlothian.