Russell Brand may be moved to 'Monster Mansion' jail
What's the story
Disgraced former Hollywood star Russell Brand, who was sentenced to 10.5 years in prison for rape and sexual assault, may be transferred to the notorious "Monster Mansion" jail. The transfer is being considered as a safer option for Brand, currently held at HMP Wandsworth in London. The new location, HMP Wakefield in West Yorkshire, has a history of high-profile inmates, including child killer Kyle Bevan and pedophile singer Ian Watkins, who was killed there last year.
Transfer details
Brand is currently undergoing a risk assessment
Brand is currently undergoing a risk assessment for a possible transfer to HMP Wakefield, reported The Sun.
A source told the publication, "Brand will have an incredibly tough time."
The source added that while the transfer process has several steps to go through, staff at Wakefield are already preparing for his arrival.
Despite its notorious reputation, this prison is considered safer for Brand as its staff is seen as better equipped.
Protection details
He might have to pay for protection in Wakefield
The source further revealed that Brand might have to pay for protection in Wakefield due to his wealth and the nature of his crimes.
"Violent inmates and gangs will target him because of his wealth, and he might end up being 'taxed' to keep himself safe," they said.
"But Wakefield is considered a good option because Brand has quite a long sentence and will be in for at least seven years."
Prison history
About 'Monster Mansion'
HMP Wakefield, also known as "Monster Mansion," has housed several notorious criminals in the past.
Soham killer Ian Huntley was there from 2004-08 before his transfer to HMP Frankland, Co Durham, where he was killed in February.
Levi Bellfield, the serial killer and rapist who murdered two women and schoolgirl Milly Dowler, spent several years at this Yorkshire prison.
Other infamous inmates include Britain's most prolific killer-doctor Harold Shipman and Robert Maudsley, aka Hannibal the Cannibal.
Rehabilitation plans
Brand will have to participate in rehabilitation programs
To have any time reduced from his sentence, Brand will have to participate in several rehabilitation programs at Wakefield.
These include Building Choices, a cognitive-behavioral program, and a Thinking Skills scheme designed to make offenders question their own behavior.
The prison also specializes in sex offenders, allowing him to complete courses that are part of his rehabilitation process.
Meanwhile, six more women have accused Brand of sexual misconduct and predatory behavior.