A convicted rapist who targeted female students in university accommodation has died at HMP Wakefield, the high-security facility known as ‘Monster Mansion’ where Lostprophets singer Ian Watkins met his death.
Details of the Attacks
Akiel Flemming, aged 25 at the time from Albert Avenue in Manchester, entered a hall of residence at the University of Wolverhampton on October 1, 2016. He raped one undergraduate student and sexually assaulted another in her room. Flemming also approached a third woman sleeping next to her boyfriend.
Police arrested him on the same day. Authorities charged him with rape, sexual assault, and trespass with intent to commit a sexual offense. Flemming claimed the encounters were consensual after being invited into the halls, but a jury convicted him on all counts.
In June 2017, Wolverhampton Crown Court sentenced him to 16 years in prison and placed him on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
Death and Ongoing Investigation
The 35-year-old died at HMP Wakefield in West Yorkshire on Wednesday, April 22. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has launched an investigation into the circumstances of his death, which remains ongoing.
The Ministry of Justice confirmed the death. A Prison Service spokesperson stated: “As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman is investigating. We will respond to its findings, and any recommendations by the coroner, in due course.”
About HMP Wakefield
HMP Wakefield houses numerous high-risk sex offenders and killers, earning its ‘Monster Mansion’ nickname. A recent inspection found that about two-thirds of inmates serve sentences for sexual crimes. The Category A prison is also where Ian Watkins, serving 29 years for child sex offenses, was attacked and killed in his cell on October 11 last year. Two men have pleaded not guilty to his murder, with proceedings continuing.
Reactions from Court and Police
During sentencing, Judge Patrick Thomas QC stated: “I am in no doubt you represent a significant risk to the public.”
Det Con Tom Keady from West Midlands Police’s Public Protection Unit added: “Flemming’s actions were shocking. He prowled the corridors of the multi-occupancy accommodation and committed all three offences on the same morning during Fresher’s week targeting fellow students. All three of Flemming’s victims have been greatly affected and their studies were interrupted.”
