Birmingham Inmate Fatally Assaulted at Midlands Prison
A tragic incident at a Midlands prison has resulted in the death of a Birmingham inmate, with the perpetrator now facing a lengthy prison sentence. Dennis Green, aged 42 and originally from Birmingham, was serving a 12-month sentence for non-dwelling burglaries when he was fatally attacked by fellow prisoner Damien Ward at HMP Fosse Way in Leicestershire.
Details of the Fatal Assault
The assault occurred on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, around 4:20 PM. According to CCTV footage, Ward initially approached Green, and the two engaged in a conversation before Green returned to his cell. Minutes later, Ward followed him to the cell and delivered a punch to Green's head, causing him to fall and strike his head on the ground. Prison staff immediately called the police after the incident.
Green sustained a serious head injury from the attack and was rushed to the hospital. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries and passed away on Thursday, August 21, 2025. The attack has been described as very serious by investigating officers, ultimately leading to Green's untimely death.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Damien Ward, aged 36, was arrested following the assault and initially charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent by Leicestershire Police. The charges were later escalated to murder, but Ward offered a guilty plea to the lesser charge of manslaughter, which was accepted by the Crown Prosecution Service.
On Friday, March 6, 2026, Ward was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison at Leicester Crown Court. During the proceedings, Ward claimed he acted in self-defense, alleging he felt threatened because he owed a debt to Green, who had lent him vapes. However, his defense counsel, Mary Prior KC, stated that Ward never intended to seriously harm Green and noted that he had since been transferred to HMP Leicester without any further violent incidents.
Impact on the Victim's Family
Detective Inspector Lorna Granville from the East Midlands special operations unit expressed relief that Ward took responsibility for the offense, sparing Green's family the additional distress of a trial. She praised the family for their dignity, support, and cooperation throughout the investigation.
The court heard that Dennis Green was remembered as a devoted father, known for his humour, warmth, and loyalty. His death has left a void in the lives of his loved ones, highlighting the severe consequences of prison violence.
Broader Implications
This case underscores ongoing concerns about safety and violence within the prison system. It serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by inmates and the importance of effective measures to prevent such tragedies. The sentencing aims to provide some closure, but it also raises questions about debt-related conflicts and self-defense claims in prison environments.
As the community mourns the loss of Dennis Green, authorities continue to monitor and address issues within correctional facilities to ensure the safety of all inmates.
