Killer who beat Scots backpacker to death with baseball bat denied parole for fifth time

A killer who brutally murdered a Scottish backpacker in New Zealand has been denied parole for the fifth time. Jahche Broughton was only 14 years old when he viciously beat Karen Aim, a visitor from Orkney, to death with a baseball bat in January 2008. Karen, 26, was walking back to her accommodation from a party in Taupō when she encountered Broughton, who was using the bat to smash windows. Despite being seriously injured, Broughton continued to attack Karen, fracturing her skull and causing severe brain injuries, leading to her death in the hospital.

In 2009, Broughton was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum non-parole period of 12-and-a-half years. He became eligible for parole in 2020, but his recent bid for release has been rejected. The prison board expressed serious concerns about Broughton’s lack of understanding regarding the events leading up to the violence and his insufficient progress in rehabilitation. Broughton has spent considerable time complaining about his prison circumstances rather than focusing on his own rehabilitation.

Parole Board chairman Sir Ron Young disclosed that during discussions, Broughton attributed his violent actions to a lack of self-awareness, growing up without boundaries, and substance abuse. Broughton mentioned that he considered the violence to be ‘normal’ at the time and claimed the offending was ‘an accident.’ Despite completing 11 sessions with a psychologist, Broughton still lacks emotional insight into his crimes and denies any sexual aspect to the offense, contrary to evidence.

Last year, Broughton’s parole was denied after he was found with prohibited items. His next parole review is scheduled for October 2025. Before Karen’s murder, Broughton had already attacked another woman with a rock. Karen’s father described her as a vibrant and cheerful soul who brought happiness wherever she went. The community was deeply affected by her tragic death, and justice continues to be sought for the brutal crime committed by Broughton.

In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, it serves as a somber reminder of the importance of addressing and preventing such acts of violence in society. It also highlights the necessity of rehabilitation efforts for offenders, to ensure they understand the gravity of their actions and work towards meaningful changes. The denial of parole for Broughton underscores the ongoing impact of his heinous actions on the victim’s loved ones and the community at large.