Donovan Moodley Denied Parole Again in Leigh Matthews Murder Case

Parole Denied for Leigh Matthews' Killer

Donovan Moodley, who is serving a life sentence for the 2004 abduction and murder of Leigh Matthews, has once again been denied parole by the South African Department of Correctional Services. The decision, announced on Friday, December 19, 2025, means Moodley will remain incarcerated for at least another two years.

The denial follows a recommendation from the National Council for Correctional Services (NCCS) to the Minister of Correctional Services, Dr. Pieter Groenewald, that parole placement not be granted at this stage. This decision comes despite an earlier recommendation for his release by the parole board in September.

Background of the Crime

The case dates back to July 9, 2004, when Leigh Matthews, a 21-year-old university student, was abducted from the parking lot of Bond University in Morningside, Sandton. Moodley kidnapped Matthews and subsequently demanded a ransom from her family. Despite receiving the R50,000 ransom, Moodley tragically murdered Matthews. Her body was discovered on July 21, 2004, in Walkerville.

In 2005, Moodley was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, along with 15 years for kidnapping and 10 years for extortion. The case garnered significant national attention and remains one of South Africa's most closely followed criminal proceedings.

Reasons for Continued Incarceration

The Department of Correctional Services stated that Moodley's parole profile will be resubmitted after a period of 24 months for reconsideration. During this time, he is required to undergo additional structured correctional programmes, psychotherapy sessions, and assessments by independent specialists. These interventions are intended to determine his risk profile and measure his progress in rehabilitation.

Officials emphasized that parole consideration is not automatic and is not solely dependent on the completion of programs or the serving of the minimum required period of incarceration.

Family's Persistent Opposition

The denial aligns with the consistent opposition from the Matthews family, including Leigh's parents, Rob and Sharon Matthews. They have repeatedly advocated for Moodley to remain incarcerated, arguing that he has not taken full accountability for his actions and shows no genuine remorse. The family has actively participated in parole hearings, making representations against his release, citing that his freedom would deny them closure.

Moodley has made several previous attempts to secure parole, all of which have been unsuccessful.