Killer of Ex Girlfriend and Partner Dies of Cancer While in Prison

Paul Mallin died of cancer. He was in jail for killing his ex and her partner. The attack happened almost ten years before his death. He was 59 and from Ilford. He died on February 3rd last year in a hospice. He was released from prison early due to his illness.

Mallin killed John Down and Karen Reid in 2016. He used a meat cleaver and carving knife. The killings happened at a housing complex. A judge called the attack “horrific.” Mallin received a 19-year sentence at the Old Bailey.

Karen Reid had a muscle-wasting condition and used a wheelchair. She broke up with Mallin in February 2015 and then moved into sheltered housing. She met John Down, who had an eye disease.

Mallin became bitter about the couple, leading to the attack on September 5, 2015. He first attacked John Down, then Karen Reid. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter, and the prosecution accepted this plea.

Mallin had previously threatened Mr. Downs by stabbing a wall in his flat with a knife. He also spat at the 86-year-old. Police found a torn notebook page in his flat that said “Dirty John,” then scratched out. Police also found pornography.

They discovered many internet searches about poison, including “Ricin – Breaking Bad.” Another search said: “So I gotta kill this guy.”

A report discussed Mallin’s death, stating he had inflammatory bowel disease. He moved from one prison to another in 2020 and experienced severe pain. Doctors confirmed he had cancer in 2022.

A hospice worker saw Mallin in November and said surgery was too risky because his cancer was very aggressive. Chemotherapy began in December, but his condition worsened. He had surgery in August 2023.

Mallin’s health further declined by January, and he moved to the hospice on January 27th. He was released early on February 1st and died two days later.

An investigation found no issues with his care. His family saw the report and had no comments. The report stated the care was good and met community standards. It made other recommendations unrelated to cause of death.

The report mentioned prison staff supported Mallin, helping him with his health. They moved him to a hospice when needed and made applications for his early release. No recommendations were made.

An inquest in December 2024 decided Mallin died naturally.