Prisoner Dies from Accidental Overdose at HMP Northumberland
A Prisons and Probation Ombudsman report published today reveals that Daniel Bates, a 39-year-old inmate at HMP Northumberland, died from an accidental overdose on October 24, 2021. The report states that Bates died from the effects of a combination of methadone, mirtazapine, amitriptyline (not prescribed), and a synthetic cannabinoid (PS). There is no evidence that he intended to take his own life, as he was receiving support to live drug-free.
Background of the Offender
Daniel Bates, from Sunderland, was sentenced in January 2021 at Newcastle Crown Court to five years in prison for robbery, theft, and possession of a bladed article. With 100 previous convictions, Bates had ordered a taxi and threatened the driver with a Stanley knife before stealing money.
Ombudsman Raises Concerns Over Drug Access
The ombudsman expressed concern that Bates was able to access and use illicit substances with apparent ease, despite the prison's efforts to address drug supply. The report notes that drug problems persist across the entire prison estate. Recommendations include ensuring that key drug issues are identified and that the local drug strategy is reviewed and revised when appropriate.
Prison and Healthcare Responses
An HMP Northumberland spokesperson said: “Our thoughts remain with Mr. Bates’ family and friends. We fully cooperated with the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman’s investigation and the inquest, which examined all relevant matters. As noted in the report, in the five years since the death of Mr. Bates we have continued to strengthen our approach to preventing the introduction of drugs into the prison. We continue to build on this progress, and our teams are deploying a range of tactics to detect, deter and prevent drugs from entering the prison.”
A spokesperson from Spectrum Community Health CIC added: “Spectrum Community Health CIC acknowledges your query in relation to the publication of the Prison and Probation Ombudsman’s report relating to the very sad death of a patient at HMP Northumberland. We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Bates’s family and all those who knew him. Spectrum accept the findings of the report and the recommendation outlined has been fully engaged with and implemented. Alongside our partners, we remain focused on continuously improving the care and support provided to patients on entering and throughout their time in the prison system.”
