A murder trial at Stafford Crown Court has heard disturbing allegations that a prisoner who strangled his cellmate wrote on the deceased’s body with a biro and scrawled words in blood on the cell walls.
Jonathan Alcide, 36, is accused of murdering fellow inmate Neil Ashby, 49, by strangulation in their shared cell at HMP Stoke Heath. Prosecutors say Alcide wrote the phrase “they killed us” on Ashby’s back, as well as other words including “plus healthcare,” using what appeared to be a biro. Additionally, similar blood-written phrases such as “they killed us,” “choke,” “stab,” and “what does my name mean” accompanied by Alcide’s name in brackets were found on the cell walls.
Ms Sally Howes KC, prosecuting, told the jury that when Ashby’s body was discovered on the bottom bunk, blood was visible on his mouth, nose, and abdomen. Despite Alcide admitting responsibility for restraining Ashby by neck compression, he denies murder and claims he is not criminally responsible due to insanity, proposing diminished responsibility as an alternative.
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In the weeks before his death, Ashby reportedly voiced concern to other prisoners about Alcide’s worsening mental health, noting episodes of paranoia, suicidal thoughts, and fears that people were out to get him. Alcide is said to have struggled with religious beliefs, becoming ‘scared of God’ after reading the Quran and expressing worries about being punished.
Ashby was described as a “happy, cheerful” and helpful individual who declined offers to move cells, choosing instead to support Alcide. Messages found on a prison-issued laptop document Alcide’s mental decline, including pleas for mental health support and statements about his PTSD and anxiety stemming from abuse experienced during childhood.
The prosecution asserts the murder was a deliberate act carried out during the evening of June 30 or early hours of July 1, with Ashby found unresponsive after Alcide summoned assistance by ringing the cell bell. Paramedics pronounced Ashby dead shortly after arriving at the prison.
The trial is ongoing as the court examines the mental state of the defendant and circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Neil Ashby.