Luke Jones
3 Dec 2019 · Coroner John Gittins · North Wales (East and Central)
A similar concern from this report was raised again 3 times later. See the linked reports.
The coroner's concerns
1. accessibility of novel psychoactive substances
“there were concerns regarding the accessibility of drugs within HMP Berwyn and notwithstanding that certain measures had been taken at HMP Berwyn (namely in relation to the installation of a Rapiscan to test some of the incoming mail), evidence at the inquest confirmed that the continuing availability and use of novel psychoactive substances”
Linked reports
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
This report
“there were concerns regarding the accessibility of drugs within HMP Berwyn and notwithstanding that certain measures had been taken at HMP Berwyn (namely in relation to the installation of a Rapiscan to test some of the incoming mail)”
Later report
“it was extremely troubling that Mr [name redacted] was able to access and use illicit substances, including Psychoactive Substances, with apparent ease at The Mount”
Identical hazardConfidence 0.95 · high
This report
“evidence at the inquest confirmed that the continuing availability and use of novel psychoactive substances.”
Later report
“It was not surprising, therefore, that in our survey, 60% of prisoners said it was easy to get illicit drugs at Berwyn”
Identical hazardConfidence 0.90 · high
This report
“The report of the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman highlighted that there were concerns regarding the accessibility of drugs within HMP Berwyn and notwithstanding that certain measures had been taken”
Later report
“(1) New psychoactive substances, especially [REDACTED] , are easily available in HM Prison High Down, as in many other prisons in England & Wales”
Responses
2019-0409-Response-from-HM-Prison-and-Probation-Service-Redacted.pdf ↗· HMP Berwyn
Stated action
“the Governor of Berwyn and the Regional Substance Misuse lead for HMPPS Wales have revised the prison's Drug Strategy. This primarily focuses on restricting the availability of illicit items, ensuring that there are appropriate consequences for those found in possession, and offering appropriate support for dependent users.”