Security alert at Walton Jail - 24th Apr 2009 1:59pm
Security alert at Walton Jail
WALTON jail was at the centre of a security alert today after reports ammunition was hidden inside.
Prisoners were prevented from leaving the jail for court appearances as guards undertook a massive search of the jail following a tip-off.
Several trials at Liverpool crown court were delayed as defendants on remand at Walton were unable to appear due to the lockdown.
A source said: "It’s a serious incident. Nobody is being allowed to leave their cells while the search is going on.
"Apparently the prisoners might be allowed to go to court later this afternoon, but for now nobody is going anywhere."
Hearings at Liverpool magistrates court were also backlogged, as Walton bosses maintained the special security measure.
A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: "HMP Liverpool is running a restricted regime today for operational reasons. Prisoners will still receive meals and medical requirements will be met.
"Court escorts and social visits will take place as normal."
The prison, which has a capacity of 1,443, serves the whole of the Merseyside. .Courts catchment area.One of the scheduled hearings hit by the delay was the murder trial of Ryan Wooley, who was shot after he bought food from a Wavertree takeaway in August 2007.
Peter Agatha, 36, who denies the killing, was due to appear in the dock along with Tyrone Griffiths, 31, and Jason Thomas, 38.
Constructed in 1855, Walton covers some 22 acres and has a single capped security wall. There are eight wings, all of which are in use having been refurbished.
Walton was named as the worst prison in the country for positive drug tests in a dossier released last July.
THE ECHO