Prisoner Punctured Lung in Northumberland Jail Attack Over Dead Brother

A prisoner suffered a punctured lung after a jail fight. Inmates Robert Smith and Abdul Malik attacked another prisoner, accusing him of talking about Smith’s dead brother. Smith stabbed him with a makeshift spike, a court heard. Malik hit the victim’s head with wood.

The fight happened August 8, 2020, at HMP Northumberland. CCTV footage showed Smith approaching Louis Downs, exchanging words and throwing punches. Smith then revealed a sharpened metal object, a paint roller part wrapped with tape. Smith retreated as Downs followed.

Malik then hit Downs with the piece of wood. Downs chased Malik, who fell. They exchanged blows before Smith rejoined the fight. Prison officers intervened and seized three weapons. Downs was also charged with affray but acquitted.

Smith told guards Downs insulted his brother, who had recently died. Malik said Downs “got away with everything.” Smith, 30, and Malik, 49, admitted to affray and possessing a weapon in prison. Both had prior violence convictions.

Smith’s lawyer argued he acted emotionally, claiming Downs was not innocent, and highlighting that Smith has housing and a job upon release. Malik’s lawyer said the case took too long and emphasized Malik has made progress in rebuilding his life.