Frank/Jane Hills

Silhouette image via Wikimedia Commons

Frank/Jane Hills, a violent male who identified as a trans woman was charged in November 2018 with possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

Hills, 66, was held on remand at HMP Cardiff before trial and had reportedly been due to admit responsibility at an early guilty plea hearing on December 7 via video link from HMP Cardiff (a Category B men’s prison) but the case was adjourned.

Hills was treated for pneumonia but subsequently died in hospital on January 25, 2019, of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Hills had been arrested at 4am on 7th November, 2018 on suspicion of making threats to kill, and remanded into custody to face firearms and affray charges. Armed police had been scrambled to the street where Hills lived.

The prison ombudsman report into Hills’ death in custody detailing recommendations for improvements in care required by HMP Cardiff and the local health board is available here.

Media reports

South Wales Argus https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/17451849.remanded-defendant-faced-firearms-charges-armed-police-scramble-newport-dies-hospital/ archive

Wales Online https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/cardiff-prison-death-ombudsman-report-17868280 archive