‘Extreme risk’ boy claims rights’ abuse

A 17-year-old boy, who claims his right to a “private and family
life” was violated when he was held on remand in a high security
adult prison, took his case for compensation to the High Court last
week.

Home secretary David Blunkett decided the teenager, who cannot be
named for legal reasons, posed an “extreme risk to the public” and
should be held as a category A prisoner in Woodhill Prison, Milton
Keynes. He is facing trial for attempted murder, kidnapping,
possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of
heroin with intent to supply and driving while disqualified.

Until this week, when he was moved to the jail’s young offender
wing, he was held in the adult section, although he was not allowed
to mix with adult prisoners. He was kept on the health care unit
where most offenders have mental health problems.

In March, the government unveiled plans to treat 17 year olds on
remand and bail as juveniles rather than adults in its response to
the consultation on Youth Justice – The Next Steps (news,
11 March, page 8).

The case continues.