Two prison officers are set to face a trial later this year in connection with the death of an inmate at HMP Liverpool.
Anthony Paine died in his cell at the Walton jail on February 19 2018 after taking his own life. But, following an investigation by Merseyside Police, two members of staff have been charged over Mr Paine's death.
Custodial manager Paul Fairhurst, of Belmont Drive in Chorley, and senior officer Rachel Jameson, of Middleton Drive in Prescot, both face counts of gross negligence manslaughter and health and safety offences. Court lists state that this involved "failing to take reasonable care for the health and safety of yourself and other persons who may have been affected by your acts and omissions at work".
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Both were brought before Liverpool Crown Court this morning, Thursday. They were not asked to enter pleas to the charge, but a trial date was set for November 20 2023 - with the pair released on bail ahead of a further appearance on March 17.
Rosemary Ainslie, head of the CPS' special crime division, previously said: "Following a review of the evidence, custodial manager Paul Fairhurst, 63, and senior officer Rachel Jameson, 31, have both been charged with gross negligence manslaughter as well as failing to ensure that appropriate measures were considered and implemented to prevent harm under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. The CPS reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against these defendants are active and that they have the right to a fair trial.
"It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice proceedings."
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