Security has been increased around John Worboys, the notorious black cab rapist, after the broadcast of an ITV drama about his crimes. The 68-year-old is reportedly terrified of an attack inside HMP Wakefield, the same prison where Lostprophets singer Ian Watkins was killed.
Worboys is said to be 'cowering in his cell' since the airing of 'Believe Me', which depicts his appalling attacks on women. Fellow inmates are known to dislike when another prisoner receives attention, and prison staff have been conducting additional welfare checks on him.
Whenever Worboys leaves his cell, he is escorted by three or four wardens. Most prisoners at HMP Wakefield have access to ITV through Freeview, and the programme has been 'the talk of the jail', according to a source quoted by the Daily Star.
The source added: 'The programme is the talk of the jail and has therefore made Worboys a massive target. He is terrified and cowering in his cell.' They noted that recent attacks show high-profile prisoners can be reached, and Worboys is aware of this.
Worboys was imprisoned in 2009 for one rape, numerous sexual assaults, and drugging offences against 12 women. He was given two life sentences in 2019 for attacks on four further women. Police suspect he may have over 100 victims. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: 'John Worboys' crimes were horrific and our thoughts remain with the victims.'
