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26/06/2012
Lifer Found Hanged In Cell
A prisoner who was serving a life sentence for murder has been found hanged in his cell.
Christopher Stokes, 37, from Londonderry, was found in a collapsed state on Monday at Maghaberry jail in County Antrim.
He was just over a year into his jail time for the murder, with two other people, of John Mongan, who was killed in front of his heavily pregnant wife in west Belfast in 2008.
At the time of Stokes's trial last year, it was reported that members of his extended family applauded in court as he and his two fellow killers were led to the cells.
Staff tried to revive him but he was pronounced dead just before midnight. A ligature was found in his cell.
A Prison Service spokesman said: "The Northern Ireland Prison Service can confirm the death in custody of a prisoner in Maghaberry last night."
The PSNI, coroner and Prisoner Ombudsman have been notified and investigations are ongoing. His family have been informed.
Prison Service acting director general Max Murray said: "On behalf of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, I would like to extend my sympathy to the family. This is a tragedy and my thoughts are with them at this difficult time."
(NE)
Christopher Stokes, 37, from Londonderry, was found in a collapsed state on Monday at Maghaberry jail in County Antrim.
He was just over a year into his jail time for the murder, with two other people, of John Mongan, who was killed in front of his heavily pregnant wife in west Belfast in 2008.
At the time of Stokes's trial last year, it was reported that members of his extended family applauded in court as he and his two fellow killers were led to the cells.
Staff tried to revive him but he was pronounced dead just before midnight. A ligature was found in his cell.
A Prison Service spokesman said: "The Northern Ireland Prison Service can confirm the death in custody of a prisoner in Maghaberry last night."
The PSNI, coroner and Prisoner Ombudsman have been notified and investigations are ongoing. His family have been informed.
Prison Service acting director general Max Murray said: "On behalf of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, I would like to extend my sympathy to the family. This is a tragedy and my thoughts are with them at this difficult time."
(NE)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
