Pentonville Prison Negligence Led to Gareth Chumber-Kelly's Death, Mother Alleges
The family of Gareth Chumber-Kelly, a 34-year-old man who died by suicide at HMP Pentonville in January 2022, is demanding the closure of the prison, citing systemic failures in his care. Chumber-Kelly, who had a history of mental health issues and drug dependence, was found dead in his cell just four days after being transferred to the institution.
His mother, Michelle Chumber, states that Pentonville Prison effectively handed her son a 'death sentence' due to inadequate care. Chumber-Kelly was on an ACCT (Assessment, Care in Custody and Teamwork) plan, a care programme designed for prisoners at risk of self-harm, yet his mother was not informed of this, nor of his transfer to Pentonville.
An investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO) found that staff did not adequately implement the ACCT plan. The report highlighted failures in sharing critical information with relevant personnel, a lack of communication with healthcare services, and a delay in addressing Chumber-Kelly's deteriorating mental state. He had previously been held at HMP Thameside, where his mother claims he received better support, including regular contact with a psychiatrist.
Following his move to Pentonville, Chumber-Kelly reportedly faced delays in accessing medication, and despite exhibiting concerning behaviours, including self-harm, his ACCT plan was not effectively managed. His mother contends that her son's death was preventable and a direct consequence of negligence within the prison system.
The Ministry of Justice stated that its deepest sympathies remained with the family and that improvements had been made at HMP Pentonville following the PPO's findings. However, Michelle Chumber insists that only the closure of Pentonville and a thorough inquiry into its practices can prevent similar tragedies.
