independent.co.uk
IPP Sentence Leads to Prisoner Death
The death of a prisoner serving an indefinite IPP sentence highlights the controversy surrounding this type of sentence and raises concerns about human rights abuses in the UK prison system.
English
United Kingdom
JusticeHuman Rights ViolationsHuman RightsUkDeathPrisonSentence
Hmp Long LartinThe IndependentMinistry Of JusticeReform And RebuildSamaritans
Josh McraeTheresa McraeUn Human Rights Expert
- What happened to Josh Mcrae?
- Josh Mcrae, a 34-year-old prisoner serving an indefinite IPP sentence, died in his cell at HMP Long Lartin. His death followed years of setbacks and a previous warning that he would only be released in a body bag.
- What is an IPP sentence and why is it controversial?
- The IPP sentence, abolished in 2012 but still affecting those already incarcerated, has been criticized as inhumane and has led to numerous deaths. Mcrae's mother is calling for an end to these sentences.
- What was Josh Mcrae's sentence and what was his criminal history?
- McRae received the IPP sentence for grievous bodily harm in 2007, maintaining his innocence. He spent 16 years in prison despite a four-year minimum sentence, and was refused parole a year before his death.
- How many people are still affected by the IPP sentence and what are the statistics?
- The IPP sentence imposed a minimum but no maximum term, leaving thousands imprisoned indefinitely. Over 700 IPP prisoners have served more than 10 years beyond their minimum sentence, sparking concern over human rights abuses.
- What are the criticisms of the IPP sentence and what is the response from authorities?
- McRae's mother described the IPP sentence as "cruel" and highlighted the impact it had on her son, preventing him from living a full adult life and causing significant family suffering. She criticized the system for keeping him incarcerated longer than murderers.