‘I worked at Ian Huntley’s notorious prison – he walked around like he owned the place’

Working at Ian Huntley’s infamous prison, I saw him strut around with an air of confidence

A former staff member at HMP Frankland, the infamous prison where the Soham murderer Ian Huntley was incarcerated, shared insights into his behavior behind bars. Huntley, who was sentenced for the 2003 killings of 10-year-olds Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, recently suffered a critical injury during an attack at the facility.

Last week, he was struck on the head with a metal pole in a workshop, leaving him in a severe condition—‘brain dead with no expectation of survival,’ according to the witness. Despite HMP Frankland being recognized as one of the country’s most secure prisons, its nickname ‘Monster Mansion’ hints at the darker dynamics within its walls.

The officer noted that Huntley was classified as a vulnerable prisoner (VP) since his life sentence began in 2003. This status, typically assigned to high-profile inmates or those with serious sexual or terror-related offenses, placed him in a separate section of the jail. It reportedly fostered a ‘false sense of confidence,’ allowing him to move through the A-wing as if he were in control.

‘He used to walk around like he owned the place. He definitely had an air of arrogance.’

However, following increased incidents of aggression and frustration from staff, Huntley’s demeanor shifted. The officer described how he became quieter, often spending his free time on his PlayStation 2. This change came after a past altercation in 2010, when robber Damien Fowkes slashed him with a homemade weapon, causing a deep wound on his neck that needed 21 stitches.

Other notable inmates at the prison include Wayne Couzens, Levi Bellfield, and Hussain Osman, who was linked to the 2005 London bombings. The officer remarked on the prison’s environment: ‘There are thousands of Huntleys. No one is out to get him because of his crimes because they are all the same.’

‘They are out to get him because they are bored and they have nothing to lose.’

While the latest attack has raised concerns, the officer suggested that such incidents are not uncommon. Triple killer Anthony Russell, who is serving a whole life order, has been identified as a suspect in the recent assault. The case highlights ongoing tensions within the prison, where high-profile prisoners often face unique challenges.

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