© By Sophie Lewis | The Grooming Files | 23 June 2025

A prisoner who died in custody at HMP Swansea last week has now been formally identified as Lee Draper, born 9 April 1984, the Ministry of Justice has confirmed.

Mr Draper died on 19 June 2025, prompting an independent investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman (PPO).

A Prison Service spokesperson told The Grooming Files:

“Lee Draper died in custody at HMP Swansea on 19 June 2025. As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate.”

The PPO has now confirmed that the next of kin have been informed and issued the following statement:

“The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman is carrying out an independent investigation into the death of a prisoner at HMP Swansea on 19 June 2025. Our final investigation report will be made public after the inquest concludes.”

This marks the latest death in custody in the UK prison system, amid rising public concern about prison conditions, healthcare provision, and institutional oversight.

Lee Draper’s death is now subject to a full investigation. No further details about the circumstances have been released.

This is a developing story.
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