In yet another tragic incident, a man identified as David Ridgeway, aged 51, has passed away while serving as an inmate at Parc Prison in Bridgend. The Category B private jail confirmed the death of Ridgeway on Monday, October 7. The specific cause of his death has not been disclosed, nor has the details of the offence for which he was incarcerated.
This unfortunate event marks the 16th confirmed death at HMP Parc Prison since late February. The timing of this incident coincides with the re-opening of an inquiry into Welsh jails. The Prison and Probation Ombudsman will conduct an investigation into Ridgeway’s death, as is the procedure for all fatalities within the prison system.
HMP Parc has been under scrutiny due to controversies surrounding its operations. The prison, managed by G4S, has been marred by riots, staff arrests, and allegations of widespread drug-dealing and corruption. Some of the previous deaths at the prison have been linked to drugs or self-harm incidents.
Recent events at the facility include the arrest of four staff members on suspicion of assault and misconduct in a public office. The ongoing issues have prompted Labour MP Ruth Jones, set to lead the UK Parliament’s Welsh Affairs Committee, to express serious concerns and commit to reopening the inquiry into Welsh prisons.
Previously, reports from former Parc prisoners and staff members have raised alarms about the prevalence of drug use and violence within the prison due to chronic understaffing and inadequate mental health support. G4S replaced the prison director in June amidst growing concerns, appointing Will Styles to lead the facility.
In response to Ridgeway’s death, an HMP Parc spokesperson expressed sadness and confirmed that the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman would investigate the matter. The exact cause of death will be determined by the coroner. G4S declined to comment on the string of fatalities that have occurred at the jail this year, further adding to the gravity of the situation.
As the community mourns the loss of another life within the prison system, questions continue to loom over the circumstances and conditions at Parc Prison. With calls for accountability and transparency, the spotlight remains on the authorities to address the systemic challenges within the prison system to prevent further tragedies like the untimely death of David Ridgeway.