Concern Over Use Of Drones Near HMP Gartree

Criminals are using drones to try and get drugs, mobile phones and weapons into Gartree Prison.

Incidents have increased in recent months, although staff have been able to intercept some packages.

Drones have been spotted near the prison

Prison watchdog, the Independent Monitoring Board, has highlighted the problem in its latest report on the jail, near Market Harborough.

Tim Norman, Chair of the Board at Gartree, told HFM it is likely to be linked to the tightening of security for visitors and elsewhere at the prison:

The IMB’s report praises the way the prison staff and prisoners have coped with the pandemic, with inmates confined to their cells for long periods during Covid-19 lockdowns.

It also details a reduction in violent and self-harm incidents during the reporting period.

Concerns were raised about the ‘unacceptable state’ of showers used by prisoners, which the IMB say are not fit for purpose.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson told HFM: “We are pleased the board recognised the efforts of staff at HMP Gartree to keep the prison running safely during the pandemic.

“To address concerns highlighted in the report, we have boosted security measures around the prison, including additional gate patrols and have plans to upgrade communal facilities.”

HMP Gartree