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Coroner Warns of Prison Drug Crisis
9 Sep
Summary
- Prisoner Wayne Miller died in HMP Frankland after swallowing drugs.
- The death was drug-related, caused by synthetic opioid and spice.
- Coroner warns prisons are fighting a losing battle against drugs.
A coroner has issued a stark warning, stating that prisons are engaged in a "losing battle" against drugs following the death of an inmate. Wayne Miller, 36, died in his cell at HMP Frankland in Durham in December 2024, after it is believed he swallowed drugs provided by a visitor.
The inquest concluded that Miller's death was drug-related, caused by a lethal combination of the synthetic opioid metonitazene and spice. He had a history of substance misuse and was known to be in debt to other prisoners over drugs.
Assistant coroner Simon Connolly emphasized the persistent challenge of preventing drugs from entering prisons, despite ongoing efforts and security enhancements. He plans to issue a Prevention of Future Deaths Report to advocate for a more consistent approach to visitor policies.
The governor of HMP Frankland acknowledged the ingenuity of organized crime gangs in smuggling drugs, citing methods like drone usage. He noted that significant security investments have been made to combat this ongoing issue.
