pounds 250,000 for hostage jail officer
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A prison officer yesterday accepted nearly pounds 250,000 in damages against the Home Office after he was taken hostage by dangerous inmates. Sidney Birchall, 47, who was awarded the record payout, claims the ordeal has left him fearing for his life.
Mr Birchall, who agreed the settlement before a hearing at York County Court, said that he and two other officers had been instructed to take two prisoners from jails in Yorkshire to Durham Prison. But when they went to collect one of the men in Leeds they discovered that not only was he a category A armed robber but also classified as a high-risk E (for escape) inmate.
Mr Birchall, a prison officer for three years, said outside the court: "We were only in a civilian minibus. We were inadequately staffed and refused to carry out the Leeds transfer." They carried out the orders after being told the prisoner had been downgraded, but were attacked on the journey. He was told he would die if he did not hand over his keys. The prisoners escaped.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments