Prison almost at maximum capacity with just four cells free

Governor confirms new 'portable' cells still need final security checks

The Isle of Man Prison has almost reached maximum capacity with only four prison cells free for new inmates.

The facility, in Jurby, usually operates with an occupancy rate of 75 percent.

However Prison Governor Leroy Bonnick told an inquest today that, as of this morning, there are 137 people behind bars; the prison’s maximum capacity is 141.

The head of the Prison and Probation Service also confirmed that 24 new cells, created from portable cabins, are not yet operational saying they need to undergo final security checks.