A prisoner has been returned to prison after attacking a female prison officer just weeks before his release following a 16-year sentence. Danny Weatherson, 36, had been serving an indeterminate sentence for public protection (IPP) since 2007, with a minimum term of 18 months. The Parole Board deemed him safe for release in September last year. However, it was revealed that he assaulted a female prison officer at HMP Northumberland in July the same year, causing her to suffer a sprained neck and requiring six months off work due to PTSD.
Weatherson was recalled to prison on his IPP and appeared at Newcastle Crown Court via video link from HMP Frankland, where he received another sentence. The court heard that Weatherson had made accusations towards the victim, insinuating corruption and undermining her authority. In July last year, during a lunch break, Weatherson self-harmed, leading to a code red alert and subsequent altercation with the officers.
The female prison officer confronted Weatherson, who then became aggressive and refused to return to his cell. During the restraint, he inadvertently placed the officer in a headlock with his leg, causing her to sustain a sprained neck. The victim expressed her fear of encountering Weatherson again, describing how the assault and PTSD affected her mental state and daily life.
Weatherson, previously convicted for various offences including assault and robbery, pleaded guilty to common assault of an emergency worker and received a 24-week jail term. Despite this, he will only be released from prison when deemed safe by the Parole Board due to his IPP status. Weatherson’s defence lawyer highlighted his troubled past, including instances of self-harm, PTSD, and recent diagnosis of early-onset Parkinson’s Disease.
The female prison officer’s ordeal sheds light on the challenges faced by prison staff and the impact of violent incidents on their wellbeing. The case serves as a reminder of the risks and struggles encountered by those working within the prison system, highlighting the need for adequate support and safety measures for all personnel.
In conclusion, the incident involving Danny Weatherson underscores the complexities within the prison environment and the importance of prioritising the safety and well-being of all individuals involved, both inmates and staff, to prevent such tragic events from reoccurring.