Penge Penal Institute, 5 December 10–30
Grave disorder broke out during the strapping of Jane Kelly, 16, for littering. SCO Rodwell was administering a 25-stroke strapping, with the assistance of DCO Prendergast, when the girl’s father, who had asked to be present at the punishment, directed a volley of abuse at the two correction officers. ‘You’re ****ing sadists!’ he shouted, repeating the asterisked word on three separate occasions. SCO Rodwell warned Mr Kelly that she would not tolerate language of that kind when she was simply carrying out her civic duties, and that he was to leave the room immediately. When he declined to do so, he was restrained with the help of DCO Prendergast and Mr Jolyon Prendergast, husband of the same, who was downstairs having a cup of tea; he was then thrashed, severely, with a cane, such ad hoc punishments being permitted under Regulation 11 (b) of the Penge Penal Code. Mr Kelly subsequently apologised and told SCO Rodwell she had been right to take such a firm line.
Signed: SCO RODWELL