An investigation has concluded that there were ‘no failings in care’ after two notorious paedophiles died from Covid-19 while in prison. Gordon Pinkerton, a former RAF serviceman, and Francis Moore, a priest, passed away in hospital after contracting the virus during outbreaks at HMP Dumfries. Pinkerton, aged 75, succumbed on April 22, 2020, while Moore, aged 85, died on February 27, 2021.
Pinkerton had been serving a 15-year sentence for sexually abusing six young girls over nearly 50 years. He was found guilty in 2013 of preying on schoolchildren across Scotland, raping two victims when they were just six years old. Moore, on the other hand, was sentenced to eight years in 2018 for abusing three children, with the youngest being only five years old, over a 20-year period.
Both inmates were part of separate outbreaks of Covid-19 within the prison. Pinkerton’s health deteriorated rapidly after testing positive, and he passed away a week later despite medical intervention. Moore initially tested negative but later tested positive for the virus. He too deteriorated quickly, experiencing hallucinations before his death in hospital.
The investigation into their deaths, conducted by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), determined that the appropriate care and treatment were provided to both individuals throughout their illness. Sheriff David Young stated that despite the tragic outcomes for Pinkerton and Moore, nothing more could have been done to prevent their deaths given the circumstances.
Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks acknowledged the findings of the investigation, highlighting that both individuals had succumbed to the Covid-19 virus while in legal custody. The inquiry emphasized the challenges faced during a nationwide pandemic and the efforts made to control the spread of the virus within the prison environment.
In conclusion, while the deaths of Pinkerton and Moore are undoubtedly tragic, the investigation has highlighted the complexities and challenges of managing health crises within the prison system. It serves as a somber reminder of the impact of the pandemic on vulnerable populations, including those in custodial settings. The findings emphasise the importance of robust health measures and appropriate care provision to mitigate the risks faced by individuals in such environments.