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Prison Workers Deny Guilt in Inmate's Death
13 Jan
Summary
- Three prison workers deny responsibility for inmate Christopher Pearson's death.
- Pearson died of cardiac arrest while being moved to another cell at HMP Leeds.
- Trial for the three workers is scheduled for July 3, 2028.
Three prison workers have denied accountability for the death of an inmate, Christopher Pearson, who died while being restrained and moved at HMP Leeds. Pearson, 42, suffered a cardiac arrest on September 10, 2021, while under the care of custody night manager Leanne Hollis, 38, and care workers Aimee Adam, 33, and Merjury Chitadzinga, 49.
Hollis pleaded not guilty to misconduct in public office, while Adam and Chitadzinga denied wilful neglect. Leeds Crown Court heard that excessive and inappropriate force was allegedly used during Pearson's relocation. The care workers also failed to properly assess his health and wellbeing.
Pearson, who had documented mental health issues and was on a safety plan for vulnerable prisoners, will have his case proceed to trial on July 3, 2028. The defendants were granted unconditional bail. The Recorder of Leeds, Judge Guy Kearl KC, cautioned the defendants that their trial date might be brought forward.
