Killer who tackled London Bridge terrorist to be released early from jail after he hit Usman Khan with tusk

A CONVICTED killer who tackled the London Bridge terrorist will be freed from prison within weeks.

Steven Gallant, 43, chased and helped pin down Usman Khan on November 29, 2019.

He used a narwhal tusk to fend off the terrorist who killed graduates Jack Merritt and Saskia Jones in the attack in central London.

Khan was later shot dead by police and Gallant said in a statement: “I could tell something was wrong and had to help.

“Khan was stood with two large knives in his hands. He was a clear danger to all, so I didn’t hesitate.”

Gallant – who was on day release at a prisoner rehabilitation event on the day of the attack – was jailed for 17 years in 2005 for the murder of Barrie Jackson, 30, in Hull.

After getting a Royal Pardon thanks to his heroic actions in 2019, the killer was granted a chance to get out of jail earlier.

The Parole Board has now revealed they have directed Gallant's release following a hearing.

The decision is provisional for 21 days pending any possible appeal from the Justice Secretary.

A spokesperson said: "After considering the circumstances of his index offending, his pattern of previous offending, the progress made while in custody, the details of the release plan and all the evidence presented at the hearing, the panel was satisfied that Mr Gallant was suitable for release."

Gallant would be subject to conditions when released on licence – including a curfew and avoiding contact with his victim's family.

'I DIDN'T HESITATE'

Gallant went before a Parole board last month with witnesses recommending his release.

They argued Gallant had "worked hard to understand and address his risk factors and to bring about a change to his life".

His lawyers said previously he could be freed from jail in three weeks.

But last year, Vicky Foster, the widow of the man who was kicked to death by Gallant, questioned the decision to release him early.

The mother of Barrie’s two kids said: “They made him a hero and forgot about his victims.”

The woman from Hull told Radio 4 that Gallant deserves respect if he has turned his life around, but she added: “Five minutes on London Bridge would not be proof."

After Gallant tackled Khan, he was praised by several figures around the country, including Boris Johnson who said: “I’m lost in admiration for the bravery of Steven Gallant and indeed others who went to the assistance of members of the public on that day and fought a very determined terrorist.

“It’s not for the Government to decide these things but it is my hope that that gallantry will in due course be recognised in the proper way.”

Last year, Gallant said he wants to start a charity when he gets out of jail to help rehabilitate fellow cons.

He has struck up a bond with civil servant Darryn Frost, 38, who helped him battle the knife-wielding extremist and the two kept in touch after that.

Speaking after the attack, Gallant said: “Special thanks to Darryn. Had he not passed me the tusk the situation could have been worse.”

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