Prison violence escalating

Prison violence in England and Wales is on the rise according to the UK's chief prison's inspector, with more than 15,000 violent assaults taking place last year.

A report by the chief prison's inspector has revealed a significant increase in violence across jails in England and Wales. More than 15,000 violent assaults are said to have taken place in men's prisons across England and Wales, according to the National Offenders Management Service data. It is the highest number in a decade.

A recent incident at a prison in Kent where violence and staff shortages were documented in a recent inspection, a 15 year old boy was found dead in his cell by staff at Cookham Wood Prison. A statement from the Ministry of Justice said, “A Cookham Wood young offender was found unresponsive in his cell at approximately 6:40 a.m. on Saturday 4 July. Staff attempted resuscitation and paramedics attended but he was pronounced dead at approximately 8: 00 a.m. His next of kin have been informed.”

The level of violence in prisons has hit staggering levels which has a domino effect with regards to inmates. Some inmates are unable to deal with the level of fear and intimidation that takes place in prisons and has on several occasions led to the suicide of many prisoners.

Critics argue that the level of violence in prisons is having an adverse effect on the rehabilitation process that should be taking place. They argue that those in prison living in such an environment could potentially become even more dangerous criminals, which in turn would make them more of a threat when released.