Eight Lifers at HMP Whitemoor Given Extra Years for Violent 10-Hour Mutiny
Eight inmates serving life sentences at the maximum security HMP Whitemoor near March in Cambridgeshire have been handed additional prison time for orchestrating a violent mutiny that lasted ten hours. The incident, which occurred on October 7, 2022, saw the prisoners armed with makeshift weapons and barricading areas of the wing, leading to a significant response from national prison teams.
Chaos Unfolds After Lunchtime Refusal
The unrest began when the inmates refused to return to their cells after lunch, prompting prison staff to call in a national response team. According to Cambridgeshire Police, the men seized control of a spur area—a self-contained landing or corridor within the wing. Initially, staff attempted to negotiate with the group while securing other prisoners, but they were forced to retreat after facing threats.
To hinder access, the prisoners sprayed shampoo, oil, and shower gel on the floor, creating a slippery surface, and overturned furniture to barricade the area. By the time the national response team arrived at 8 pm, the inmates had fashioned makeshift weapons from kettles and broken table legs, escalating the violence.
Intense Standoff and Final Confrontation
The situation intensified as the prisoners retreated to the cell of one of the inmates, Korie Hassan, where they constructed another barricade. After a tense standoff, the national response team regained control at 10 pm, restraining all eight prisoners without any serious injuries reported, thanks to the professionalism of the officers involved.
Sentencing at Cambridge Crown Court
At Cambridge Crown Court, the final sentences were passed on February 20, with each inmate receiving extra prison time on top of their existing life terms for murder or conspiracy to murder. The additional sentences ranged from 16 months to four years, ensuring that all involved face extended incarceration.
Guilty of Prison Mutiny:
- Rick-Champion Musaba, 30: Four years added to his 26-year sentence.
- Nicholas Bridge, 26: One year and six months added to his 24-year term.
- Irwin Constable, 25: Three years and six months added to his 24-year sentence.
Guilty of Violent Disorder:
- Korie Hassan, 33: Three years and four months added to his 29-year sentence.
- Jahliel Rose, 29: One year and four months added to his 25-year term.
- Troy Muschett-Thomas, 25: One year and six months added to his existing sentence.
- Dior Diego Jackson, 27: One year and nine months added to his 29-year sentence.
- Bradley Blundell: One year and six months added to his 22-year sentence for murder.
Investigation and Judicial Remarks
Detective Constable Emma Purser, who led the investigation, emphasized the extreme violence directed at staff and the prolonged control of the prison area. During sentencing, the judge noted that the absence of serious injuries was solely due to the officers' professionalism in handling the volatile situation.
This case underscores the challenges in managing high-security prisons and the legal consequences for inmates who engage in violent disruptions, reinforcing that such actions will result in significant additional penalties.
