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Crime Solicitors
Inspection of HMP Pentonville reveals “shocking squalor” and culture of violence (24 June 2015)
Date: 24/06/2015
A report by the Chief Inspector of Prisons has found “shocking” squalor at Pentonville prison in north London, with high levels of drug abuse and violence.
The Evening Standard newspaper reports that HMP Pentonville also has high levels of staff sickness – and as a result, high-risk inmates are not being properly identified before release from jail and do not receive the necessary risk management strategies to protect the public.
The Chief Inspector of Prisons Nick Hardwick also found a culture of violence at HMP Pentonville, with an average of one assault a day at the prison.
Levels of violence were found to have doubled since the last inspection two years ago.
Mr Hardwick’s report states:
“In the previous six months, there had been 185 assaults, 66 of which had been on staff and 119 on prisoners, and 80 fights.”
The prison houses 1,200 inmates – and inspectors found dirty conditions, with bloodstains on walls and “filthy” lavatories.
The jail is housed in a Victorian building, which dates from 1842 – however, as well as issues with the condition of the building, the report highlights “a failure of management and leadership” at the jail.
Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers
Duncan Lewis crime lawyers can advise prisoners on their rights in custody, including advising on appeals against conviction and sentencing, applications to the Parole Board and licence conditions.
Duncan Lewis can also advise on access to healthcare and mental health care while in custody – as well as how to claim compensation for injuries sustained as a result of unprovoked attacks in prison, or prison staff using undue force or restraint causing injury.
For expert legal advice on prisoners’ rights in jail, call Duncan Lewis crime lawyers on 020 7923 4020.