Leaked Chats Expose Disturbing Abuse and Mockery by Prison Officers at Welsh Facility
Leaked messages from staff at HMP Parc in Bridgend, Wales, have unveiled a disturbing culture of violence and mockery within the prison’s walls. The leaked conversations include jokes about self-harming inmates, celebrations of violent altercations, and chilling statements advocating for breaking prisoners “mentally and physically.”
The messages, reportedly shared on social media last summer, have sparked outrage after being reviewed by the BBC. In one exchange, a staff member laughed about an inmate being violently thrown into a shower. Another responded: “Good! I hope they hurt him too.”
In another chilling message, an officer joked about punching a prisoner and used laughing emojis. Perhaps most concerning were comments mocking inmates who were suicidal or seriously self-harming.
HMP Parc, operated by private security firm G4S, has already been under scrutiny due to a surge in inmate deaths. At least 17 prisoners have died at the facility in 2024, the highest number of any UK prison this year.
Ongoing Investigations and Arrests
The prison has been the subject of multiple investigations, including one by the prison service’s corruption unit, and a South Wales Police inquiry that began last September. Four prison officers were arrested on suspicion of assault and misconduct. Although they were released without charge, three have since been dismissed by G4S, and one remains suspended pending disciplinary action.
A further six individuals were arrested in January 2025, including men from Bridgend, Swansea, and Cardiff. Police have confirmed these individuals remain under investigation, with decisions expected by the end of April.
South Wales Police Detective Chief Inspector Dean Taylor confirmed that the investigation remains active and that authorities are working closely with G4S to uncover the full extent of the misconduct.
G4S Responds
A G4S spokesperson said the company enforces a “zero tolerance” approach toward staff behavior that violates its code of conduct. “We are absolutely committed to rooting out any wrongdoing,” they stated. “Our staff are expected to treat everyone with dignity and respect.”
Despite this assurance, the public and rights groups have expressed concern over the company’s ability to manage such a high-risk facility.
A Culture of Crisis
HMP Parc has made headlines repeatedly for reports of drug smuggling, overcrowding, and high rates of violence and self-harm. Earlier investigations uncovered methods of smuggling drugs using drones and disguised items such as nappies.
With ongoing scrutiny from Parliament, human rights advocates, and local communities, there are renewed calls for greater transparency and oversight of privately-run prisons in the UK.
The leaked messages, which come amid multiple deaths and growing unrest, have painted a grim picture of a system where cruelty has, at times, replaced care.
As the investigations continue, families of inmates and advocacy groups demand answers—and justice.
