Northern Ireland

Muckamore abuse probe: 38 people told they face prosecution

Muckamore Abbey Hospital in Co Antrim. Picture by Mal McCann
Muckamore Abbey Hospital in Co Antrim. Picture by Mal McCann Muckamore Abbey Hospital in Co Antrim. Picture by Mal McCann

A TOTAL of 38 people have been told they face prosecution over allegations of abuse at Muckamore Abbey Hospital.

Police investigating the allegations today arrested a 38-year-old man - the 29th person to be detained in the case.

He was later released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service.

The Muckamore investigation is the biggest criminal safeguarding probe of its kind in Northern Ireland and is at the centre of a public inquiry.

Staff working at the Co Antrim regional hospital for adults with severe learning disabilities are alleged to have carried out physical and mental abuse as well as "wilful neglect" of vulnerable patients.

The latest arrest took place in the Antrim area this morning.

It was the first arrest since December 2021.

A total of 38 people have been told that they are to be prosecuted in connection with the probe. They face prosecution for crimes including ill-treatment and wilful neglect contrary to the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986. An inquiry into allegations of abuse officially began in October.

It is being overseen by Public Inquiry Chair, Tom Kark QC.

Public hearings are to begin within the next month.