Jailbird Russell Harris Slapped with 18 Months for Assault on Prison Officer
Russell Harris, 50, has been jailed for 18 months after admitting to assaulting a prison officer and possessing weapons inside HMP Swaleside. The sentence was handed down at Maidstone Crown Court on Tuesday 27 July 2021.
Bladed Weapons Stashed in Cell Sparked Search
Earlier on 15 May, officers sniffed out a fermenting liquor smell in Harris’ cell. A search uncovered six improvised weapons hidden under a pillow, on shelves, and buried in his clothes. Despite this, Harris continued to hide more dangers.
Officer Suffers Severed Thumb After Bite during Search
On 27 May, staff tried to search Harris’ cell again. He refused to comply and bit an officer’s thumb so hard the tip was severed, causing a fracture that needed hospital treatment.
Despite the attack, officers found one more concealed weapon in his cell.
Cop Warns: Assaults on Officers Won’t Be Tolerated
Detective Constable Karen Hearn said: “This type of behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Prison officers know the risks but deserve to work safely without fear of assault. This sentence sends a clear message – there are consequences for violent actions behind bars.”
