Levi Bellfield’s civil partnership has been blocked after a new law came into force which prevents the most serious offenders from getting married behind bars.
Bellfield kidnapped and murdered 13-year-old Milly Dowler in 2002, and then killed Marsha McDonnell in 2003 and Amelie Delagrange in 2004.
He also tried to murder 18-year-old Kate Sheedy and is a suspect in other cases.
One of the UK’s most notorious criminals, he is serving two life sentences and may never be released.
There was anger when the 56-year-old appeared set to get married in prison after becoming engaged to a visitor two years ago.
The former protector and security guard was reported to have knelt in front of guards at high security HMP Frankland in County Durham.
Bellfield successfully challenged efforts to stop the marriage – and was reportedly given up to £30,000 in legal aid to fight the case on human rights grounds.
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said last year there was no way to stop him and it was determined to change the law.
It is understood that Bellfield recently changed her marriage proposal to request a civil partnership.
French student Amelie Delagrange was killed in Twickenham, southwest London
The measure is believed to have led the government to accelerate the introduction of the new law, which comes into force today.
The legislation forms part of the Victims and Prisoners Act and applies to killers carrying out orders for lifecurrently more than 70 people, including names like Rose West, Wayne Couzens and Lucy Letby.
Previously, marriage proposals could only be refused if the prison governor believed there were security concerns.
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“Victims should not be tormented by watching those who commit the most depraved crimes enjoy the moments of life that were stolen from their loved ones,” said Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood.
“That’s why I acted as quickly as possible to stop these marriages and give the victims the support they deserve.”
The Justice Secretary will retain the right to allow ceremonies in very exceptional circumstances, Justice Ministry officials said.
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