A man has been charged with murder following the death of convicted child killer Ian Huntley after an alleged assault inside a high-security prison.
A spokesman for Durham Constabulary said: “A man has been charged with murder following an incident at HMP Frankland in Durham.
“Emergency services were called to reports of an assault in the workshop on the morning of Thursday, February 26.
“Ian Huntley, 52, was taken to hospital with serious injuries but died on the morning of Saturday, March 7.”
Murder Charge Following Assault At HMP Frankland
Police said Anthony Russell, 43, who is also being held at HMP Frankland, has been charged in connection with the incident.
According to the force, Russell is scheduled to appear via video link at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, March 11.
Investigators were called after reports of violence inside a prison workshop, where Huntley was allegedly assaulted. Emergency responders attended the scene before the 52-year-old was transferred to hospital with severe injuries.
Background: Soham Murders That Shocked The UK
Huntley was serving life sentences for the murders of two schoolgirls in the town of Soham in 2002.
The former school caretaker was convicted of killing 10-year-olds Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman after they left a family barbecue to buy sweets. Their bodies were later discovered in a ditch.
In December 2003, Huntley was found guilty of both murders and handed two life sentences.
CPS Confirms Decision To Prosecute Anthony Russell for the murder of Ian Huntley
Christopher Atkinson of the Crown Prosecution Service said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has decided to prosecute Anthony Russell with murder following a police investigation into a fatal attack on Ian Huntley at HMP Frankland.
“Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring the case to trial and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Glasgow Central Station Remains Closed After Devastating Vape Shop Fire Disrupts Rail Services
“We have worked closely with Durham Constabulary as they carried out their investigation.”
Authorities have reminded the public that criminal proceedings are now active and the defendant is entitled to a fair trial.
Why you can trust SurgeZirc UK. Learn more about our editorial standards.
