An investigation into the case of a West Lothian prisoner who preyed on children and was assigned carers before his death has revealed some troubling details. The prisoner, Gordon Fraser, was sentenced to seven years in October 2021 for historical sex attacks on two young victims. Sadly, less than a year later, at the age of 79, he was found dead at HMP Addiewell.
Fraser, who also suffered from cerebral palsy, was in very poor health following his imprisonment and was assigned his own carers who visited him daily. Due to his frailty, a “do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation” order was put in place on November 9, 2021. He was later admitted to St John’s Hospital in Livingston for various health issues, including a urinary tract infection and a chest infection.
Despite multiple admissions to the hospital for conditions like sepsis and pneumonia, Fraser declined admission and left without treatment during his last visit. Just three days later, he was found dead in his cell at the prison. Fraser had been convicted of historic sex crimes, including assaulting a boy and committing sexual offences against a girl, at Livingston High Court. Despite denying the charges, he was found guilty and placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
The tragic case of Gordon Fraser highlights the importance of providing appropriate care and support to vulnerable individuals, even those who have committed heinous crimes. It also raises questions about the management of prisoners’ health and well-being within the prison system. Hopefully, lessons can be learned from this case to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
