HMP Wakefield: Notorious Criminals and Grim History

Explore HMP Wakefield, known as 'Monster Mansion', housing notorious inmates like Reynhard Sinaga and Colin Ireland, and its grim historical background.
Posted on Dec 17, 2024
Manchester
HMP Wakefield: Notorious Criminals and Grim History

HMP Wakefield, often referred to as 'Monster Mansion' due to its notorious inmates, has gained a grim reputation, particularly after the incarceration of Reynhard Sinaga, Britain's most prolific rapist, who was convicted of raping 136 young men in Manchester.

Reportedly, Sinaga has fallen prey to vigilantes within the prison, with a source indicating that he is "arrogant and universally loathed" and is considered a clear target due to his heinous crimes. He was mere seconds away from serious harm, highlighting the dangers he faces in custody.

Inside HMP Wakefield

Court appearance of Reynhard Sinaga, the notorious rapist
Reynhard Sinaga (Image: PA)

HMP Wakefield is the toughest maximum-security prison in the UK, housing 800 of the most notorious criminals. Located in West Yorkshire, its origins date back to 1594.

Throughout the 20th century, the prison gained notoriety for housing IRA prisoners, including Frank Stagg, who died there in 1976 after a hunger strike. Another infamous inmate, Robert Maudsley, known as 'Hannibal,' is held in a glass cell at the facility after committing multiple murders, including two inside HMP Wakefield.

Exterior view of HMP Wakefield prison, established in 1594
The prison dates back to 1594 (Image: Yorkshire Live WS)

Despite its grim history, a report in 2022 revealed that conditions in Wakefield were rated as "good," with prisoners treated with "respect" by the staff.

'Emanated Evil'

Colin Ireland, infamous serial killer
Colin Ireland (Image: PA)

Colin Ireland, one of Britain's most notorious serial killers, is remembered for taking the lives of five gay men. Former prison governor Vanessa Frake recounted an encounter with him during a prison tour, stating that he "emanated evil" and had a terrifying presence.

She described her encounter: "He said absolutely nothing... No other prisoner made me feel like that." Her experience reflects the chilling atmosphere surrounding some of the prison's inhabitants.

Standard cell in D-wing at HMP Wakefield
A standard cell D-wing at Wakefield Prison (Image: PA Archive/Press Association Images)

Past Inmates

Wakefield's infamous reputation is bolstered by its notorious inmates, including Ian Huntley, convicted of the murders of schoolgirls Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in 2002, and Charles Bronson, who likened the prison to 'London Zoo' during his stay.

Harold Shipman, known as 'Dr Death' for his murders
Harold Shipman (Image: Getty Images)

Harold Shipman, another notable figure, gained infamy as 'Dr Death' for his role in over 200 murders. He was found dead in his cell in January 2004, with numerous other killers, such as Levi Bellfield and Robert Black, having served time within Wakefield.

Current Inmates

Jeremy Bamber, convicted for a family massacre
Jeremy Bamber (Image: PA)

Currently, well-known inmates include Jeremy Bamber, sentenced for the 1985 massacre of his family, and Sidney Cooke, once dubbed 'the UK's most notorious paedophile,' who continues to serve a life sentence for a series of sexual offenses.

Cooke's participation in the 'Dirty Dozen' gang and his history of heinous crimes have left a lasting impact, with retired detective David Bright warning that there may be hidden graves linked to Cooke's actions throughout the country.