Terror reign at women's prison
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Prisoners at a women's jail conducted a reign of terror, leaving staff afraid for their own safety, according to a report published yesterday.
Over the past year there was a series of "serious incidents" - including vicious gang fights between inmates - at Bullwood Hall in Essex, said the Chief Inspector of Prisons, Sir David Ramsbotham. In a scathing inspection report he also said he was "shocked" to learn that a male officer was forced to leave the Prison Service after allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman inmate in the segregation unit.
A Prison Service spokesman said the incident was investigated by police but no charges were brought.
Sir David said he was so concerned by conditions at Bullwood Hall - which the Prison Service has declared to be in need of special managerial attention - that he would conduct a follow-up inspection next year. Incidents at the jail had included assaults on staff and other prisoners, at least two gang fights, cell fires, two passive demonstrations over the amount of time spent inmates locked up in cells, and at least one suspected sexual assault by women on other prisoners as part of the illegal drugs trade.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments