A true story about why Prision officers shouldn't be armed

 An Account of an Incident at HMP Parc: A Case Against Tasers and Pepper Spray

The following account details an incident that occurred at HMP Parc, offering a perspective on the use of force by prison officers and arguing against the provision of tasers and pepper spray. The narrative is based on a first-person account, aiming to provide clarity and context to the events.

Background and Context

As I  have spent the past 35 years in prison, I have been diagnosed with several conditions, including personality disorder traits, PTSD Type-2 Complex, depression, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia. This context is crucial in understanding the potential for heightened emotional responses and the need for sensitive handling in stressful situations.

The Precipitating Incident

On June 6th, I was informed by two administrative officers that my mother's phone number would be removed for eight weeks. This was due to a three-way call with my probation officer, this is because the Hornchurch probation office has a call centre, and states we must press numbers during the call, which cannot be done by the prison telephones. I have been doing this for the last 4-5 years. which was intended to arrange upcoming meetings related to my parole. This initial action caused distress, setting the stage for the subsequent events.

Escalation and Confrontation

Following a series of conflicting updates regarding the reinstatement of the phone number, l sought to speak with a unit manager on Friday, June 13th. I was confronted by two members of staff. I would describe these officers as young and lacking life or prison experience. During this confrontation, I  was given a direct order to return to my cell, and I felt intimidated and threatened.

The Incident and Use of Force

My emotional state deteriorated, leading to self-harm. I cut my wrist, and blood began to flow. In this state, the officers responded by physically engaging with me. the officers began to bring me to the floor, kicking my legs out from under me, and one officer grabbed me by the throat, then the other officers began to pile in.  I  maintained that I was not resisting, but the officers insisted that I was.. After the incident, I was frog-marched to my cell by several officers, while I was still bleeding profusely, and they pushed me in and locked me in my cell before even thinking of first aid for me. Healthcare was provided approximately five minutes later.

Argument Against Tasers and Pepper Spray

The core argument of this account is against the use of tasers and pepper spray by prison officers, and the lack of help and support by officers.. I believe that if these weapons were available, they would have been used in this situation. This account emphasizes that I was in crisis and needed support, not further aggression.

Introduction

In recent years, HMP Parc has faced significant scrutiny due to the alarming number of deaths among its inmates. With 17 deaths reported in 2024 alone, this privately run prison in Bridgend has become a focal point for discussions about prison conditions and the treatment of inmates.

A Call for Review

The statement emphasizes the need for a thorough review of all deaths occurring within HMP Parc. It suggests that many of these tragedies could have been prevented if prison staff had performed their duties effectively. The call to action is clear: families and loved ones of deceased prisoners are urged to come forward and share their experiences.

The Reality of Prison Life

With 35 years of experience behind bars, I  have a deep concern for the treatment of inmates. The assertion is made that wearing a uniform does not grant immunity from accountability. The message is that prison staff must be held responsible for their actions, especially when it comes to the welfare of those in their care.

The Need for Change

The article highlights the importance of addressing the systemic issues within HMP Parc. It points out that many officers have faced suspension, indicating a troubling pattern of misconduct. The call to action encourages families to unite and advocate for their loved ones, ensuring that they are not just seen as numbers in a system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the plea for justice resonates strongly with those affected by the tragedies at HMP Parc. The message is clear: it is time to fight for the rights and dignity of all prisoners. The hope is that by raising awareness and demanding accountability, meaningful changes can be made to prevent further loss of life.

R.I.P. to all those who have passed in HMP Parc and other prisons. Their stories deserve to be heard, and their families deserve justice.