Lennon's killer refused parole

John Lennon's killer Mark Chapman has been refused parole for a fifth time, reports the BBC.

Chapman, who has been in prison for 27 years after pleading guilty to Lennon's murder, will remain in New York's Attica prison for at least another two years. He previously had appeals turned down in 2000, 2002, 2004 and 2006.

The parole board stated that Chapman had a clean disciplinary record since 1994 but concluded that his conduct had "precipitated a horrendously tragic event which has impacted many individuals.

"Your discretionary release at this time would thus not be compatible with the welfare of society at large."

Chapman had told the board how he planned Lennon's murder "with an essentially clear mind".

Lennon's widow Yoko One earlier urged authorities to keep Chapman imprisoned: "It's dangerous for him to come out. Not only for us, but for himself. There are so many people out there who dislike him. It's safer for him to stay in jail."