The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has released a report into the death of 52-year-old Elliot Matthews while a prisoner at HMP Preston on September 26, 2023. Matthews, from Burnley, was jailed for 12 years on November 15, 2022, for a number of sexual offences, including rape, assault by penetration and strangulation. Just 10 months into his sentence, he died from bronchopneumonia caused by advanced cancer of the throat.
His family asked for information about Mr Mathews’ diagnosis and treatment, and why he was not granted compassionate release. The report states: “The clinical reviewer concluded that the clinical care Mr Matthews received at HMP Preston was of a good standard and equivalent to what he could have expected to receive in the community.” “No recommendations” It adds: “In September 2023, prison staff at Preston started an application for compassionate release.