Prisons failing ‘by every metric’ says former governor – Channel 4 News

London: John Podmore, a former high-security prison governor, recently shared his thoughts on the state of prisons. He pointed out that while the doors are locked, the windows are wide open, allowing serious issues to slip through. The government has had six months to address these problems, but it seems like not much has changed.

Podmore emphasized that this isn’t a new issue. He mentioned that the prison service has lost control, with organized crime taking over inside the prisons. He believes that the National Crime Agency should be involved to tackle this problem effectively. It’s not just about prisons; it’s a broader crime issue that needs attention.

When asked about the government’s efforts, Podmore stated that the prison service has been failing by every metric for about a decade. He highlighted the need for better security measures to prevent drones from dropping contraband into high-security jails. While there are some technological solutions, the real challenge lies in managing the criminals inside.

He estimated that the drug trade in prisons is worth around £1 billion, which shows just how serious the situation is. If drugs can be smuggled in, then weapons can be too. Podmore stressed the importance of working with the National Crime Agency to regain control over the prisons and manage the staff effectively. He pointed out that demoralized staff and poor leadership have been ongoing issues that need to be addressed. It’s a tough job, but it’s crucial for the safety and security of everyone involved.