KEVIN WHELAN FROM WIGAN DIES OF NATURAL CAUSES IN DURHAM PRISON

In February 2009, Kevin Whelan, a convicted sex offender from Wigan, passed away while in custody at Durham's University Hospital of North Durham. The 67-year-old inmate was being held at Frankland Prison, where he was serving a life sentence for the sexual abuse of three young girls over a span of several years. His death was reported to have resulted from what authorities described as 'natural causes.'

Following his death, the deputy Durham coroner Brenda Davidson initiated an inquest, as is customary in cases involving the death of an inmate or a person in custody. The circumstances surrounding Whelan's passing are under official review, and an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause.

Kevin Whelan's criminal history was extensive and deeply troubling. He had been convicted twice before for sex crimes prior to his life sentence. In December 2001, Judge John Roberts at Bolton Crown Court sentenced him to life imprisonment, explicitly stating that Whelan was 'a danger to young girls.' The judge's assessment was based on Whelan's previous convictions, which included a six-year sentence in 1980 for attempted intercourse with a girl under 13, and a seven-year sentence in 1987 for rape and indecent assault.

The latest case that led to his life sentence involved allegations from an eight-year-old girl, who reported inappropriate activities by Whelan. Subsequently, two other victims came forward, revealing similar experiences. Upon learning of the investigation, Whelan voluntarily surrendered to police authorities. During the legal proceedings, he admitted to 20 counts of indecent assault, though charges of rape were dropped earlier in the process.

Whelan's criminal conduct was characterized by repeated offenses over many years. His history of abuse was uncovered when the young girl initially confided in her family, prompting police involvement. Whelan, who resided in the Wigan area until his arrest, was described as a significant threat to children, which led to the severe sentencing. His case drew considerable attention due to the nature and persistence of his crimes.

His death marks the end of a long and troubling chapter in his criminal history. The ongoing inquest will seek to clarify the circumstances of his passing, but authorities have so far indicated that it was due to natural causes. The case continues to serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by repeat offenders and the importance of vigilant law enforcement and judicial processes.