Sex attacker 'The Fox' dies in prison aged 72

A serial sex attacker who committed over 80 crimes in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, has died in prison at the age of 72.

Malcolm Fairley was nicknamed 'The Fox' before his identity was known in 1984, due to his habitual den-making at the homes of his victims.

The Ministry of Justice confirmed Fairley died on May 28th at HMP Hull.

The father-of-three broke into the homes of families across the three counties, and would make and eat meals, watch television and collection trophies whilst waiting for his victims to return home,

Fairley would also make dens with their blankets and furniture, earning him the nickname of 'The Fox'.

Sexual offences committed against men, women and children were among Fairley's crimes.

A manhunt for Fairley was conducted, with Bedfordshire Police officers taking shifts to conduct stakeouts in the homes of families across Leighton Buzzard, Dunstable and Tring.

Over 200 officers were involved in the investigation, which lasted five months, with Fairley's arrest taking place in September 1984.

The Ministry of Justice confirmed Fairley's death, at HMP Hull.

A Prison Spokesperson said: “Malcolm Fairley died on 28 May at HMP Hull. As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has been informed.”

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