Convicted Child Sex Offender John Sadler Dies at HMP Liverpool

John Sadler, a 32-year-old convicted child sex offender, died in HMP Liverpool on November 26, 2024, the day he was scheduled to be sentenced for new offenses. Sadler's death has been confirmed by both the Prison Service and the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman. He had been found guilty of communication and image charges involving both real children and police decoys earlier in the week.

Sadler faced a potential sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment. According to reports, he was due to be sentenced via video link on November 26 but the hearing was adjourned due to a medical emergency. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman is currently conducting an independent investigation into Sadler's death.

This is not Sadler's first conviction for child sex offenses. In 2014, he was found guilty of grooming a 13-year-old girl and having sexual intercourse with her in a Wirral park. He received an extended prison sentence and a consecutive term for contempt of court after threatening the victim's family.

Sadler unsuccessfully attempted to appeal his conviction in 2017, claiming he was the victim of a miscarriage of justice. Despite this, the Court of Appeal refused permission to appeal, stating that the convictions were "entirely safe". His recent offenses spanned from March 2019 to September 2021.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about staffing levels and resources at HMP Liverpool, despite recent positive inspections. A whistleblower previously reported "frighteningly low" staff numbers and stretched resources, raising concerns for both prisoners and staff safety. The Ministry of Justice has responded by stating that the prison has increased officer numbers and invested in new security measures.