© Tom Blewitt – HMP Prisons Justice Group
Two weeks ago, we reported the tragic death of a man at HMP Parc. We can now confirm that Matthew Gilbert, aged 40, passed away on 22nd September while in custody at the privately-run prison. His death has prompted an official investigation by the Prison and Probation Ombudsman.
Despite multiple press inquiries, G4S—the company responsible for operating HMP Parc—has failed to respond. Emails from journalists have gone unanswered. This silence speaks volumes.
This is not an isolated incident. HMP Parc has been plagued by a series of deeply disturbing events:
– 17 inmate deaths in 2024 alone, many linked to synthetic opioids like nitazenes.
– Nearly 900 drug finds in a single year, with half of prisoners saying drugs are easy to obtain.
– Up to 21 hours a day in cells, leaving inmates idle, frustrated, and vulnerable.
– A 60% rise in self-harm since the last inspection.
– 13 deaths in just eight months, prompting a parliamentary inquiry to be reopened.
– Staff arrests for assault and misconduct, andallegations of rampant drug-dealing and corruption.
Inquests have revealed heartbreaking stories. Ross Andrew Appleby, a 29-year-old father, died after overdosing in his cell. His mother described him as “not a bad person, just lost”. Another inmate, Lewis Petryszyn, was found dead just 45 minutes after a disciplinary note was slid under his door. He had ingested multiple psychoactive substances, and the prison’s handling of his mental health was condemned.
These are not just statistics. These are lives. Families. Futures extinguished.
Matthew’s passing is not just a statistic. He was a son, a friend, a human being. No family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one behind bars, especially without answers. Our hearts go out to Matthew’s loved ones during this devastating time. We stand in solidarity with them in their pursuit of truth, accountability, and justice.
Another life lost far too young. Another family left with grief and questions.
We will not let this be forgotten.
Rest in forever peace, Matthew. 💔🙏
Tom Blewitt from HMP Prisons Justice Group said:
“We are extremily saddened to report on another death at HMP Parc. HMP Parc as has yet again failed in its duty of care. Our thoughts are with Matthews family and friends at this difficult time. No family should have to go through this and we stand with them in their fight for justice and accountability. This is now 36 deaths at Parc since the start of 2022. G4S must now be stripped of their contract so no other family have to suffer”
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