Local News · Devizes
Inquest concludes into death of prisoner at HMP Erlestoke
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
A jury has determined that an inmate at HMP Erlestoke died from synthetic cannabinoid toxicity, prompting scrutiny over prison safety and observation procedures.
An inquest into the death of Michael O’Connor, who was found unresponsive in his cell at HMP Erlestoke near Devizes, has concluded that he died of a drug-related cause. The jury found that Mr O’Connor, 32, died from the toxicity of a synthetic cannabinoid, commonly referred to as spice, at some point between 8.30pm on 3 November 2020 and 8am the following morning.
Mr O’Connor was found unresponsive in his cell on the morning of 4 November 2020 and was subsequently pronounced dead. During the proceedings, which concluded on 14 September, the jury heard evidence from pathologists, prison officers, and fellow inmates. Accounts provided to the inquest described a history of substance use within the prison environment. While the pathologist noted that the substance can cause severe medical emergencies including seizures, strokes, and respiratory depression, they were unable to pinpoint the exact time of death or the specific mode of the incident.
The inquest highlighted significant concerns regarding prison security and the monitoring of inmates. Evidence presented during the hearing revealed that it was a common practice for prisoners to obstruct the observation portals of their cell doors, limiting the ability of staff to check on them. Witnesses at the inquest stated that, in the hours leading up to the discovery of Mr O’Connor’s body, his door portal had been covered, though staff reported receiving verbal responses from within.
Bethan Davies, the head of security at HMP Erlestoke, confirmed that prison officers are mandated to obtain both visual and aural confirmation to ensure inmate safety. Following the death of Mr O’Connor, staff on site have more stringently enforced the policy requiring prisoners to remove obstructions from these observation ports.
Tributes shared during the inquest painted a picture of a man who was looking forward to his release. Mr O’Connor’s former partner told the hearing that he had a heart of gold and that she had secured a job for him to begin upon his return to the community. Fellow inmate Adam Foster, who described himself as very close to Mr O’Connor, told the court that he had spoken frequently about his daughter and his anxiety to leave prison.
The coroner noted that due to the time elapsed since the 2020 tragedy and the subsequent introduction of new prison safety checks, there was little to be gained by pursuing further recommendations at this stage. The proceedings serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by facilities in managing the illicit supply of substances and ensuring the physical welfare of those in custody.
Source: Wiltshire Times — Crime · View original