A report examining a violent attack on prison officers by Hashem Abedi, who aided in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, recommends a new system of rewards and punishments for the most dangerous inmates. The proposed system would mirror practices used in US “Supermax” prisons.
Report Details and Recommendations
The report, commissioned in May by then Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood, investigated how Abedi was able to carry out a planned ambush on staff at HMP Frankland using boiling oil and homemade weapons. It was submitted to the lord chancellor’s office in August.
The report suggests adopting a model similar to that of ADX Florence in Colorado, often referred to as the “Alcatraz of the Rockies.” At ADX Florence, prisoner behavior is continuously evaluated, with positive conduct rewarded through access to privileges like exercise, radio, and television. Conversely, negative behavior results in the removal of privileges and restricted contact with other inmates.
Calls for Transparency
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy is facing pressure to release the report. Andy Slaughter, the Labour chair of the House of Commons’ justice select committee, stated that after a four-month wait, prison officers, the public, and parliament deserve access to the recommendations made by Jonathan Hall KC to prevent similar incidents.
The attack on prison officers at HMP Frankland, which occurred on April 12th, involved Abedi allegedly attacking four officers with makeshift knives and boiling oil. Three officers were hospitalized, two with stab wounds. Abedi has pleaded not guilty to charges including attempted murder.
Ongoing Response and Future Steps
The Ministry of Justice has stated that protecting staff is a priority, citing recent measures such as the rollout of body armor and expanded Taser use. They have indicated that the report is under review and will be published, along with their response, at a later date.
It is possible that, following the report’s publication, the government may implement changes to the way high-risk offenders are managed within separation centers. A possible next step could involve a pilot program to test the proposed rewards and punishments system. Further investigation may also be conducted into how inmates, like Abedi, gain access to materials that can be fashioned into weapons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted this report?
The report was commissioned following an attack on prison officers at HMP Frankland in Durham on April 12th, carried out by Hashem Abedi.
What is the ADX Florence prison model?
ADX Florence, a US Supermax prison, continuously evaluates prisoner behavior and rewards positive conduct with privileges like access to exercise, radio, and television, while removing privileges for negative behavior.
When is Hashem Abedi next due in court?
Abedi is due to appear at the Old Bailey in February.
How might a system of rewards and punishments impact the prison environment and the behavior of long-term, high-risk inmates?
