Rapist who inflicted 'extreme trauma' died just six months into 27-year sentence at HMP Leeds
Pensioner refused flu vaccine before death
A predatory rapist who targeted three victims died just months after beginning a 27-year sentence.
Charles Pratt had refused a flu vaccination jab in HMP Leeds, but then caught the illness that led to fatal pneumonia.
An independent investigation by the Prisons & Probation Ombudsman (PPO) found that he had received the treatment he could have expected in the community.
The 72-year-old, who from Skipton, was jailed in August 2024 at Bradford Crown Court having been found guilty of 19 sex offences, including multiple counts of rape.
A detective had praised the “immense bravery” of his victims whom he put through “harrowing” ordeals for decades.
Detective Constable Neil Borchardt, from North Yorkshire Police, who led the investigation, added: “He used violence and threats, often while under the influence of alcohol, to carry out these attacks for his own disturbed sexual gratification.
“He adversely affected the lives of his victims who have had to endure extreme levels of trauma.”
The PPO report said that two months after being sentenced, Pratt was offered the flu jab at HMP Leeds but declined.
He was admitted to hospital in late November 2024 where he spent a week before being discharged.
Pratt was returned to hospital on January 7, 2025, and died two days later.