By Connor Lynch
Copyright belfastlive
The Prisoner Ombudsman has released a report following an investigation into the death of a man at a prison in Northern Ireland. Wallace Ferguson was found unresponsive in his cell at Maghaberry Prison on February 12, 2024, and despite the efforts of healthcare staff there, he was pronounced dead shortly after 11pm. The 55-year-old had been remanded in custody on September 27, 2023, with the report stating that over the next few months there were a couple of incidents where healthcare staff had concerns regarding his mental health and ability to keep himself safe, but these were addressed. However in the days prior to his death he had reported feeling down due to the breakdown in a personal relationship on February 2, but five days later said he was feeling better. He was then found unresponsive in his cell on February 12, by a prison officer at 10.15pm who was carrying out a routine inspection. The previous inspection at 8.30pm did not report any concerns regarding Mr Ferguson. The report into his death said the cause of death recorded on the post-mortem was “Hanging”. It also said that the care Mr Ferguson had received during his time in prison was “at least equivalent to what he might have received within the community”. It made no recommendations made to the Northern Ireland Prison Service or the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust. Speaking on the publication of the report into Mr Ferguson’s death, the Prisoner Ombudsman, Darrin Jones, said: “I offer my condolences to Mr Ferguson’s family on their loss. I would like to thank Mr Ferguson’s family, Northern Ireland Prison Service and the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust for their co-operation with the investigation conducted by my Office.” Anyone can contact Samaritans FREE any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. Or you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch. For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter