Sword attacker's death probe finds drug use evidence

OMBUDSMAN CONCLUDES CAUSE WAS HEART DISEASE

- By SUE KIRBY

AN investigation into the death of a samurai sword-wielding attacker's death in prison found he was previously seen under the influence of drugs.

Raymond Allison, 47, was serving an eight-year prison sentence in HMP Holme House prison when he died in his cell on April 25, 2021.

Another inmate was also found collapsed on the floor beside him.

However, a newly-published report by the independent Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has concluded that Allison died of heart failure and is recommending no further action be taken.

Kimberly Bingham’s report said that Allison had no known heart issues and did not report any physical health concerns during his time at Holme House.

The clinical reviewer was satisfied his care was equivalent to what he could have expected in the community.

Fellow prisoners alerted staff when Allison and his cellmate were seen lying on the floor of the cell.