HMP Wandsworth Officers Fired for Mocking Inmate's Suicide in WhatsApp Group
Two prison officers were dismissed after celebrating a young inmate's death in a group chat, highlighting ongoing issues within the troubled facility.
- The offensive messages were shared in a WhatsApp group with 27 prison staff members, including a custody manager.
- The inmate's mother expressed heartbreak over the messages, questioning if officers mistreated her son before his death.
- The officers' conduct was reported to the police, but no further legal action was taken.
- HMP Wandsworth, already under scrutiny for poor conditions, has been placed in special measures due to overcrowding and violence.
- The prison service has strengthened vetting processes and introduced measures to support staff in raising concerns.