© Tom Blewitt & Zack Griffiths – HMP Prisons Justice Group
A man who had been released early from prison was found dead just three days later after falling from a bridge in Bristol, an inquest has heard.
Daniel Woods, 37, had been released from HMP Cardiff on 20 June 2024 under the End of Custody Supervised Licence scheme, following an 18-week sentence for theft and criminal damage.
Mr Woods had a documented history of mental health difficulties, including paranoid schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, for which he was receiving treatment. During his initial health screening in prison, he reported a past history of self-harm but said he had not harmed himself for three years and denied any current suicidal thoughts.
He also disclosed daily heroin use prior to custody and was prescribed methadone to manage withdrawal symptoms.
Throughout his time in custody, Mr Woods was seen by mental health professionals and other support services. Records show that he consistently denied thoughts of suicide or self-harm during these interactions. Staff noted that he tended to keep to himself and did not engage widely, but no acute mental health concerns were identified.
He was referred to substance misuse services and discussed support for after his release, although he later stated he had not engaged with those services while in prison.
Upon release, Mr Woods was not subject to suicide and self-harm monitoring procedures and was not assessed as being in crisis. He was provided with harm minimisation advice, including warnings about reduced drug tolerance after time in custody, and was issued a naloxone kit.
He reported to probation on the same day, where staff noted he appeared lethargic and was sweating. He denied using illicit drugs.
Mr Woods was released without secured accommodation after a placement through the Community Accommodation Service was not yet available. He was advised to seek help from the local authority, which later confirmed he had been provided with emergency housing.
The following day, he was referred to a substance misuse support charity and arrangements were made for him to receive a methadone prescription. However, he did not attend the scheduled appointment.
On 23 June 2024, emergency services were called to reports that a person had fallen from the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Mr Woods was found with injuries consistent with a fall from height and was pronounced dead at the scene at 3.15pm.
A post-mortem examination concluded that Mr Woods died from multiple injuries. Toxicology tests detected slightly raised levels of methadone and low levels of heroin and cocaine, consistent with recent drug use.
At an inquest, the coroner concluded that Mr Woods’ death was caused by injuries sustained in a fall from height. The coroner noted that it was difficult to determine the extent to which drug use may have influenced his behaviour, particularly given his underlying mental health conditions.
The circumstances surrounding Mr Woods’ death highlight the challenges faced by individuals with complex mental health and substance misuse needs during the transition from custody back into the community.
HMP Prisons Justice Group 