Mental health concerns surface after HM Prison stabbing

An inmate with known mental health challenges allegedly stabbed a prison officer at His Majesty’s Prison in Balsam Ghut on Sunday, leaving both the officer and the inmate nursing stab wounds, officials confirmed on Monday.

Superintendent of Prison Jay Kendall said the attack was swiftly contained by staff, who used “appropriate and measured force” to de-escalate the situation. Both the injured officer and inmate were treated at Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital and discharged the same day.

Kendall commended the swift response of prison staff, emphasizing their role in maintaining security while managing inmates with complex needs. He also highlighted the broader challenges of addressing mental health in custodial settings.

Over the past eighteen months, the prison has collaborated with the Ministry of Health and Social Development and the Governor’s Office to enhance security and rehabilitation efforts, including improved officer training, mental health awareness programs, and upgraded protective equipment.