Title: Shocking Increase in Elderly Inmates in Prisons Raises Concerns
The prison population’s average age has been hiked up by older criminals being brought to justice later in life, like Rolf Harris. There are now 1,903 inmates aged 70 or over in England and Wales — more than double the number inside ten years ago.
The Surprising Rise in Older Inmates
The figures relate to all crimes, but many are linked to sex offences. The so-called Rolf Harris effect means there are now 389 inmates in their 80s — up from 112 in 2013. And there are 25 in their 90s — a rise from one a decade ago.
Challenges Faced by Prisons
The trend is putting additional strain on jails, as the elderly inmates need more personal care, as well as regular transport to medical appointments. David Spencer, a director at the Centre for Crime Prevention, said: “Perhaps the MoJ needs to look at a special kind of provision, such as a type of hybrid care home/prison for some of these very elderly and infirm criminals?”
Reasons Behind the Increase
The rise is being linked to victims being more willing to speak of historical abuse. Celebrity perverts Rolf Harris, Gary Glitter, and Stuart Hall were all brought to justice late in their lives. But the law is also catching up with former teachers, religious figures, and others with similarly dark pasts. The CPS prosecuted 3,139 over-70s last year, with nearly 600 being sex offence cases.
Government’s Response
The Ministry of Justice said: “The prison population now includes more people over the age of 70, as does the country as a whole.” Victim of Gary Glitter battles for compensation following historic abuse.