A man who was accused of sexually assaulting an eight-year-old boy at a campsite in Scotland has passed away while in prison. John Bell, aged 44, was discovered deceased at HMP Inverness on November 8, where he was awaiting trial after being charged with the assault that occurred in July.
The alleged incident took place at Loch Ness campsite, where the child was reportedly approached inside his tent. The boy’s father awoke to his son in distress and claimed to have witnessed the suspected perpetrator fleeing the scene, as reported by the Daily Record.
Originally from Grangemouth, Bell appeared in a closed session at Inverness Sheriff Court on September 1, where he did not enter a plea. The case was adjourned for further investigation while Bell remained in custody.
Authorities have been notified of Bell’s passing, and a Fatal Accident Inquiry will be conducted. A spokesperson from the Scottish Prison Service expressed condolences, stating that every death in custody or the community is a tragedy for those connected to the individual.
Upon a prisoner’s death, Police Scotland is informed, and the incident is reported to the Procurator Fiscal for assessment. Fatal Accident Inquiries will be carried out as required.
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