Prison Insider Claims Huntley's Routine Changes Made Him Vulnerable
An anonymous prison insider has revealed that Soham murderer Ian Huntley made two significant alterations to his daily routine at HMP Frankland, which allegedly made him "easier to get to" by other inmates. This information comes following Huntley's most recent violent attack, where he was discovered in a pool of blood last Thursday at the high-security facility in Durham.
Increased Exposure Through Work and Exercise
According to the source, who spoke with the Chronicle, Huntley had recently begun participating in a prison workshop and using the gym facilities. These activities brought him into closer proximity with other prisoners, potentially including those who might wish to target him. "He would have been easier to get to in the workshop he goes to," the insider stated, noting that only prisoners from Huntley's specific wing attended that particular workshop.
Huntley, who is serving a life sentence for the murders of ten-year-olds Jessica Chapman and Holly Wells in August 2002, is reportedly held on an 'enhanced' wing at HMP Frankland. This section is designed to keep high-profile inmates separate from the general prison population for their protection. "You could never put him in normal prison population," the source explained, comparing his situation to other notorious prisoners like Levi Belfield and Wayne Couzens.
History of Prison Attacks on the Notorious Killer
This latest incident marks the third serious attack on Huntley during his incarceration. The primary suspect in the most recent assault has been named as triple killer Anthony Russell, though authorities have not officially confirmed this identification. Witnesses reported hearing the suspect yell "I've killed him" as prison staff escorted him away from the scene.
Previous attacks include a 2005 incident at HMP Wakefield where Huntley was scalded with boiling water, and a 2010 attack at HMP Frankland where he suffered a severe slash wound to the throat. In the 2010 case, Damien Fowkes admitted to attempted murder after inflicting a seven-inch wound using a razor blade melted onto plastic cutlery. Fowkes reportedly asked a prison officer afterward: "Is he dead? I hope so."
Inmate Competition for Notoriety
The prison insider claims that inmates have long competed for the notoriety associated with attacking Huntley, whose crimes shocked the nation. The murderer's girlfriend, Maxine Carr, who was the girls' teaching assistant, knowingly provided him with a false alibi during the investigation.
Despite protective measures, the source suggests that Huntley's recent routine changes increased his vulnerability. "Only his wing's prisoners go to that workshop; it could be someone on his wing," they noted, highlighting how even within protected environments, opportunities for violence can emerge when inmates interact during work or recreational activities.
