More Time For Prison Urine Attack

A remand prisoner, who sprayed urine into the face of a female detention officer, has been locked up for an extra twenty months.

Michael Raheem, 22, was being held at HMP Belmarsh on a robbery charge he subsequently received six years imprisonment for.

He was convicted of administering poison, with intent to injure, aggrieve or annoy, following a determined police investigation to prosecute the urine attack.

The incident occurred on October 6, 2018 when Raheem, holding a shower gel bottle filled with urine, approached the female officer and sprayed her with it. 

He was detained by staff and the half-full bottle was retained.

An investigation was launched by officers from the South East Prison Investigation Team.

The unusual charge was pursued by Detective Constable Natalie Ford because an offence of common assault only carries a maximum six-month sentence.

The Metropolitan Police's forensics team needed to source analytical capability to support the investigation. 

Therefore, a review of forensic testing capability, offered by forensic providers, was conducted, identifying a company that was able to examine the liquid and confirm beyond reasonable doubt that it was urine – making it applicable under the legislation.

Detective Chief Inspector John Massey, from the South East Command Unit, said:“This conviction shows a real persistence and flair for innovation on the part of the officers involved, demonstrating the extra mile the Met will go to ensure the safety of, and justice for, front line staff.”