Midlands Prison Inmate Admits Manslaughter of Fellow Prisoner
An inmate at a Midlands prison has confessed to killing a fellow prisoner following a violent assault that resulted in fatal injuries. The tragic incident occurred at HMP Fosse Way, located in Leicestershire, where the fatal attack took place last year.
Court Proceedings and Guilty Plea
Damien Ward, aged 36, formally pleaded guilty to manslaughter at Leicester Crown Court on Friday, January 30. The Crown Prosecution Service accepted his plea based on the evidence presented in the case, which detailed the events leading to the death of 42-year-old Dennis Green.
The court heard how prison staff contacted police after Green was assaulted by fellow inmate Ward on August 6 last year. According to Leicestershire Police, Green sustained a serious head injury during the attack and was immediately taken to hospital for emergency treatment.
Fatal Consequences and Investigation
Despite receiving medical attention, Dennis Green could not be saved from his injuries and tragically passed away in hospital on August 21. The investigation revealed that Ward was initially arrested and charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, but this was subsequently upgraded to a murder charge as the severity of the situation became clear.
DI Lorna Granville, from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, commented on the case, stating: "Green was subjected to a very serious attack which ultimately led to his death in hospital. I am pleased Ward has taken responsibility for this offence and in doing so has spared Green’s family the additional distress of a trial."
Family Response and Sentencing
The detective inspector went on to praise the dignity shown by Green's family throughout the difficult investigation process, adding: "Throughout this investigation, Green’s family have conducted themselves with great dignity and I would like to thank them for their continued support and cooperation."
Damien Ward is now awaiting sentencing for the manslaughter conviction, with the hearing scheduled for March 6 at Leicester Crown Court. The case highlights ongoing concerns about safety and violence within the prison system, particularly at facilities like HMP Fosse Way in the Midlands region.