Prisoner Ombudsman Publishes Report Into a Post Release Death
Published on May 14 2026
The Prisoner Ombudsman has today published a report relating to the death of Mr V, who died aged 76 on 16 December 2022 at Causeway Hospital following his release from Magilligan Prison. The Prisoner Ombudsman for Northern Ireland is responsible for providing an independent and impartial investigation into deaths in prison custody in Northern Ireland and this includes deaths shortly after release.
Mr V was committed to Maghaberry Prison on 27 August 2021 and was later transferred to Magilligan Prison on 14 October 2021. He was transferred to Causeway Hospital on 28 November 2022 and was released on compassionate grounds on 15 December 2022. He died the following day from community acquired pneumonia, lung cancer, cellulitis and a urinary tract infection.
The Prisoner Ombudsman undertook an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr V’s death. The investigation examined the care and treatment provided by the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) and Healthcare in Prison (HiP), provided by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, during Mr V’s time in custody.
The investigation found that the overall standard of care provided to Mr V during his time in custody was appropriate, comparable to treatment which would have been received in the community, and that there was evidence of regular engagement, multidisciplinary support and compassionate care from both NIPS and HiP staff.
The report identified one recommendation for the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust relating to the use of recognised assessment tools and follow-up assessments when prisoners present with acute deterioration or cognitive confusion. The report also highlighted learning for NIPS in relation to recording and evidencing contact with next of kin when prisoners are transferred to hospital for prolonged periods.
Speaking on the publication of the report into Mr V’s death, the Prisoner Ombudsman, Darrin Jones, said:
“I offer my condolences to Mr V’s family on their loss and I hope this report provides clarity around the care he received while in custody.”
“This investigation found evidence of compassionate and coordinated care from both prison and healthcare staff during a very challenging period, including the additional pressures presented by the Covid-19 pandemic.”
“It is important that opportunities for learning are identified and acted upon to ensure the continued improvement of care for those in custody, particularly prisoners with complex and palliative healthcare needs.”
“I also thank all of those who contributed to this investigation.”