PPO to carry out special investigation into abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre

The Secretary of State for Justice has commissioned the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO) to carry out a special investigation into the abuse that took place at Medomsley Detention Centre (MDC) between 1961 and 1987.

MDC was a facility open from 1961 to 1987 that held boys and young men aged 17 – 21. Former inmates have since reported being subjected to abuse while detained at the centre. Police investigations since the 1990’s have led to the convictions of seven former members of staff.

The PPO investigation will look into what the authorities knew about the abuse, what action they took and whether there were opportunities for them to have taken action or intervened.  We will not re-investigate the facts of the abuse or re-investigate individual incidents.

To view the full scope of our investigation, click here to read the Terms of Reference for this commission.

We are in the process of putting together a dedicated team for this special investigation. We will be prioritising engagement with victims and families.

Following the investigation, we will publish a written report of our findings.

For queries relating to this special investigation please contact ppomedomsleyinvestigation@ppo.gov.uk. Click here for the media release.