A Bolton father seeks intervention from the justice secretary after being recalled to prison under an indefinite sentence for past offenses
Bolton: A father named Matthew Booth is on the run after finding out he’s facing an indefinite prison sentence. He’s reaching out to the justice secretary for help.
At just 15, he was sentenced under the IPP system for a crime he committed while trying to protect a friend. Now, he’s served his minimum term multiple times but keeps getting recalled.
Police want him back in prison because they say he didn’t inform them about rekindling a relationship with the mother of his kids. But both he and Abigail Vernon insist that’s not true.
Matthew has even offered to turn himself in if the justice secretary, Shabana Mahmood, would support him. He believes her backing could prevent him from going straight back to prison.
He’s been living alone, trying to stay warm and sending Christmas cards to his daughters. It’s tough for him, and he’s torn about whether to turn himself in.
Matthew feels like he’s being punished for things that aren’t even true. He’s frustrated that he’s being recalled without any real charges against him.
He’s been in and out of prison, and every time he tries to rebuild his life, it gets taken away. He misses his kids and worries about his mental health.
There are still many people like him stuck in the IPP system, and it’s a real struggle. The system has been criticized for its harshness, and many are calling for change.
Matthew just wants a chance to be with his family and live a normal life. It’s a tough situation, and he’s hoping for some understanding and support.
