Bristol prisoner convicted for killing fellow inmate
Dan Childs was killed inside HMP Bristol in June last year
Last updated 30th Jul 2024
A prisoner has been convicted of manslaughter by diminished responsibility following the death of a fellow inmate at HMP Bristol.
Michael Harkin has been found guilty of killing Dan Childs who was 38 in June last year, as well as wounding a second prisoner.
A jury at Bristol Crown Court heard Harkin had two different cellmates in the days leading up to Mr Childs' death.
On Wednesday 31st May last year a prisoner, who until then had been alone in his cell, was told he would need to share it with Harkin.
The court heard how despite having only recently redecorated it for himself, the prisoner requested to be moved the following day, later telling police it was because he felt "there was something not right" about Harkin.
It was subsequently decided that Mr Childs' would need to share with Harkin instead.
Police were called to HMP Bristol on Monday 5th June 2023 after Harkin assaulted the first prisoner who had asked to move cells, in the showers.
He had used an improvised blade to wound the man in the face, shoulder, neck, arms and leg.
Following the attack prison staff went to check on Mr Childs and found him unresponsive in the cell he shared with Harkin. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
CCTV footage was reviewed during the course of the investigation and showed that after Harkin and Mr Childs entered their cell on Sunday 4th June, no other person entered it prior to doors being unlocked the following morning when Harkin walked to the showers.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Nadine Partridge said: “Our thoughts are foremost with the family of Dan Childs, who have had their much-loved son, brother and uncle taken away from them.
“A specially-trained officer continues to provide them with support at what continues to be an incredibly difficult time for them.
“Harkin has been remanded ahead of a sentencing hearing later in the year, following the completion of psychiatric reports.”
A post mortem examination found Mr Childs had been fatally strangled.
Harkin has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced on Friday 11th October.