Man jailed for rape and murder sues prison service in test case that could cost taxpayers millions

A convicted murderer and rapist is trying to seek compensation as he claims his jail sell was too cold and lacked hot water.

Barry Hillman, 42, says that a lack of central heating and hot water in the prison infringed on European human rights legislation.

The claim could cost taxpayers millions of pounds as Hillman is leading 28 other convicted criminals in seeking compensation in court.

The inmates claim that the conditions they suffered at HMP Littlehey, a prison in west Cambridgeshire for men convicted of sexual offences, constituted as inhumane and they should therefore be entitled to reparations.

The Sun reported that inmates at HMP Littlehey were provided with portable heaters, hot water bottles and duvets to combat the cold. They were also given hot soup and thermal underwear.

But Hillman and 28 others say that conditions were degrading, and at its worst in 2018.

The convicted criminals also say this led to hygiene issues and illness. Due to the lack of central heating and hot water, many of them stopped washing.

Hillman is part of four test claimants. The inmates could receive up to £30,000 each if successful, lawyers said. If the test cases are successful, another 25 claims could be ready to go.

The conditions at HMP Littlehey have come under criticism before. A report by HM Inspectorate of Prisons said that the jail had ‘chronic’ heating and boiler issues.

The 2019 report said: ‘Over the previous two years, the heating and boiler system had caused chronic problems across the prison and had had a negative impact on the living conditions for prisoners.

‘During this time, some prisoners had slept in cold cells and had not always been able to access warm showers daily. 

The conditions at HMP Littlehey, in Cambridgeshire. have come under criticism before

‘Contingency plans were in place but many prisoners faced another winter living in cold conditions on the wings.’

In 2002, Hillman was charged and jailed for life for murdering a pizza delivery driver.

Then, in 2012, he was found to have committed rape while on leave from prison.

The Sun reported that the Ministry of Justice said they had acted to address the prisoners’ discomfort. They also said that they will fight the claims when the case is heard at the Central London county court.