Prisoner dies after cell hanging

A prisoner died today after being found hanging in his cell.

John Baker-Heffernan, 22, who was serving five years for robbery, attempted robbery and burglary, was found in his cell at the category B Swaleside prison in Kent at 8.15am today and pronounced dead about 25 minutes later.

Baker-Heffernan, who was convicted last year and sentenced in January, was not the subject of specific suicide and self-harm prevention measures, it is understood.

A Prison Service spokeswoman said: "Staff attempted resuscitation and paramedics attended but he was pronounced dead at 8.40am.

"As with all deaths in custody, the independent Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will conduct an investigation."

PA