A Greater Manchester Police (GMP) detective constable is in stable condition following a stabbing incident this morning at HMP Frankland, a high-security prison known for housing some of the UK’s most notorious criminals.
The officer was attacked in the chest around 11 AM by an inmate and was promptly attended to by land and air ambulance crews. He was rushed to the hospital where he was initially listed in critical condition, but authorities have now confirmed that his status has stabilised.
Durham Police, who are leading the investigation into the incident, have detained a man in his 60s in connection with the attack. Detective Chief Inspector Chris Smiles, overseeing the investigation, expressed his concern for the injured officer: “Our thoughts are with our colleague who suffered appalling injuries while simply doing his job. Thankfully, his condition is no longer critical and we wish him a full and speedy recovery.
HMP Frankland is categorized as a Category A men’s prison and hosts some of the country’s most dangerous offenders. Notable inmates include Damien Bendall, who murdered four individuals in Derbyshire in 2021, and Wayne Couzens, the convicted murderer of Sarah Everard.
The prison has been the site of previous violent incidents, highlighting ongoing security challenges within high-security facilities. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding today’s stabbing as they engage with the victim and his family to provide support during his recovery.
Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.