Inmate throws boiling water on HMP Featherstone prison officers
Boiling water was thrown at two prison officers by an inmate at HMP Featherstone – leaving both victims blistered and psychologically damaged from the attack, a court heard.
Menelek Thompson launched the unprovoked assault at the category C lock-up near Wolverhampton on December 3 last year.
The attack left prison officer Michael Wallace with blisters on his face, neck and his chest, while colleague Sharon James was left with similar injuries to her neck and shoulder.
They were in a prison office when Thompson struck and after initially feeling the shock and pain from the boiling water on his skin, Mr Wallace was able to raise the alarm before being taken to the kitchen where other staff applied cold water to the injuries, Cannock Magistrates Court was told.
Both victims were sent to hospital and had to have time off work – Ms James is yet to return.
Thompson, aged 33, has since been moved to HMP Dovegate but appeared via video link yesterday at Cannock Magistrates Court where he pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm against Mr Wallace and a count of common assault against Ms James.
Prosecutor Karen Walton read out impact statements on behalf of the two victims.
Ms James has since been diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder and is unsure if she will be able to return to work.
The officer revealed she also now suffered panic attacks, had nightmares and flashbacks about the incident, could no longer enjoy her previous hobbies, had a fear of crowded places and could no longer drive for fear of crashing.
Ms James also told how it was impacting on her relationship and she felt she was 'bringing everyone down'.
Her statement said: "I am so far away from the person I was before the assault."
She added: "I don't know how I can deal with the person who did this. They showed no remorse."
Mr Wallace was discharged from hospital the same day but was signed off work for a week and has since had to have counselling.
His statement said: "If I had not got my glasses on on I could have lost my sight.
"I don't have patience with prisoners and I find it difficult to stay calm now. It has had a massive effect on my physical and emotional wellbeing. It has also impacted on my home and work life."
Magistrates concluded their sentencing powers were 'insufficient' and Thompson will now be sentenced at Stafford Crown Court at a date to be confirmed.
