The Crimes of John Massey: From Incarceration To Advocacy

John Massey, an English former prisoner, is the longest-serving inmate in the United Kingdom. 

With over 43 years spent behind bars, his notorious crimes and multiple escapes have made him a well-known figure.

From his initial sentence for the murder of a pub doorman to his eventual release in 2018, Massey’s story is one of redemption, regret, and resilience. 

Let’s delve into the life and crimes of John Massey, exploring his journey from convicted killer to free man.

Murder and imprisonment

In 1975, Massey was involved in a pub brawl in Clapton, East London, resulting in his friend being stabbed in the eye with a broken bottle. 

This incident ultimately led Massey to commit murder. 

Massey, after taking his injured friend to the hospital, returned to the pub and shot the doorman, Charlie Higgins, with a sawn-off shotgun. 

He was convicted of murder and received a life sentence of 20 years. However, due to multiple prison escapes, his sentence was extended.

In 1994, Massey escaped by climbing out of a pub window during a supervised visit with his parents. He evaded capture for three years in Spain before being extradited back to a UK prison.

In 2007, Massey violated his parole conditions to visit his dying father, resulting in his second escape.

He was later caught and returned to prison. His third escape occurred in 2012 when he scaled the walls of Pentonville prison with a rope and a hook to visit his dying mother. 

Despite having his sentence extended by 23 years due to his escapes, Massey maintains that he does not regret any of them.

Life behind bars

Massey became known for his numerous talents and interests during his time in prison. 

He became an accomplished artist and writer and even wrote a book about his life titled ‘Redemption Song: My Journey from Murderer to Free Man.’ 

Massey emerged as a passionate champion for prisoners’ rights and frequently attracted journalists seeking insights into incarcerated life.

Having been transferred multiple times due to his high-risk status, Massey experienced stints in nearly every prison across the UK.

Amidst his time behind bars, he encountered various challenges, including confrontations and threats from fellow inmates. 

Nevertheless, he displayed unwavering perseverance, earning a reputation for his resilience and determination.

Life after prison

After serving over four decades in prison, John Massey was finally released in 2018.

Although his freedom received a mixed response, Massey has been quietly relishing his newfound life, savoring the little joys of being free.

Every morning, he diligently makes his way to the nearby gym and frequently strolls through his community, embracing his new liberty.

The Channel 4 documentary – What Makes a Murderer

In November 2019, John Massey became the focus of a Channel 4 documentary titled “What Makes a Murderer.” 

The documentary delved into his life, interviewing him and conducting physical and psychological assessments to explore whether pre-existing factors contributed to his propensity for violence. 

The program revealed that Massey had two specific brain abnormalities, combined with a childhood marked by abandonment at the age of three, which may have played a role in his criminal actions.

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