Prisons - in brief (11)
01 May 2006
UK: Ray Gilbert - ten years over tariff: Ray Gilbert is now 10 years over tariff, still struggling to overturn his conviction for the murder of John Suffield, some six years after the quashing of the conviction of his co?defendant John Kamara. Ray has, over the years, refused to allow the Prison Service to treat him like an animal, and has paid a price in terms of the conditions in which he has been held. Until recently, Ray was held in the Close Supervision Centre at HMP Woodhill, but was transferred to the "therapeutic community" at HMP Grendon. In a discussion meeting, Ray made it clear that he felt "under heavy manners" from prison staff. Staff treated this as a threat on Ray's part. All 37 prisoners also present supported Ray's account. On the staff say?so he was shipped back to Woodhill. To write letters of support: Ray Gilbert H10111, HMP Woodhill, Tattenhoe Street, Milton Keynes MK4 4DA
UK: Most women prisoners should be given community sentences: More women are jailed in the UK than in any other European nation, except Spain and Ukraine, according to research conducted by the Howard League. A total of 4,494 adult women and 202 girls are behind bars. Three quarters suffer mental health problems. Two thirds are drug/alcohol dependant. One in ten have attempted suicide prior to imprisonment. Half have suffered domestic violence. One third have been sexually abused. The Howard League notes that female prisoners are suffering "shocking levels of suicidal behaviour, sexual abuse, mental illness and drug addiction." The League suggests that custody should be reserved for a handful of violent, dangerous women ? with the majority of women offenders given community sentences instead. All 15 womens' prisons would close over the next five years under the Howard League's proposals. The research notes that there are 2,076 more women and girls behind bars since New Labour came into office in May 1997.
Howard League 2.8.06; The Independent 2.5.06.
UK: Prison staff corrupt says Prison Service report: A study by the Prison Service's anti?corruption unit and the Metropolitan police, has concluded that prison staff are the primary source for drugs in jails. At least 1,000 staff are believed to be corrupt. The study relies on anecdotal evidence and concludes that corrupt staff commit illegal acts for financial gain.
BBC News 31.7.06.