The Case of Matthew Raveneau

Matthew Raveneau took his own life on the 26^th or 27^th November 2002, four days after being released on bail from Belmarsh Prison.

The deceased’s mental health had deteriorated during 2002 and in October 2002 he held his children hostage in their home in an effort to get himself shot by police snipers. He did not threaten the children and they were released unharmed. He was prosecuted for false imprisonment and during this period his partner made several requests for him to be given help for his mental health problems.

He was remanded into custody at HMP Belmarsh on 12^th November 2002. The Prisoner Escort Record identified him as being at risk of suicide or self harm. However, the nurse and doctor whom he saw in Reception at Belmarsh did not pick up on this and he was recorded as having "no particular medical concerns".