Full Breakdown
Damien Bendall Sentenced for Attempted Murder in Prison
2/23/2026, 10:35:25 PM
Overview of the Incident
Damien Bendall, a 36-year-old man already serving a whole-life sentence for the murders of his pregnant partner and three children, has received an additional life term for the attempted murder of a fellow inmate, Michael Mullaney. The incident occurred in May 2024 at HMP Frankland in Durham, where Bendall attacked Mullaney with a claw hammer, striking him four times in the head without warning. The first blow rendered Mullaney unconscious, and the severity of the attack raised concerns about its potential fatality.
Background of the Perpetrator
Bendall, a former cage fighter, was sentenced to a whole-life order in December 2022 for the brutal killings of Terri Harris, 35, and her children—11-year-old Lacey and 13-year-old John Paul—along with Lacey's friend, 11-year-old Connie Gent, in Killamarsh, Derbyshire, on September 19, 2021. The murders involved a prolonged assault using a claw hammer, and Bendall also admitted to raping Lacey as she was dying.
Details of the Attack
During the attack on Mullaney, Bendall reportedly planned the assault to facilitate a transfer to a segregation unit, as he was concerned about his deteriorating mental state. After the attack, he expressed confusion about his actions, stating, “I don’t know,” when questioned by prison officers. Mullaney suffered serious injuries, including depressed skull fractures and bleeding on the brain, requiring four nights of hospitalization.
Sentencing and Judicial Remarks
At Teesside Crown Court, Judge Francis Laird KC sentenced Bendall to life with a minimum term of 15 years for the attempted murder. However, he emphasized that Bendall would never be released due to his history of violent and sexual offenses. The judge noted the aggravating factors of the crime, particularly that it occurred within a prison setting.
Victim's Perspective
In a victim statement made three months after the attack, Mullaney described the psychological impact of the assault, stating it left him anxious and struggling to sleep. Despite the violence, Bendall's defense claimed that he wanted to convey regrets and apologies to Mullaney, indicating a complex dynamic between the two men.
Conclusion
The case of Damien Bendall highlights the ongoing issues of violence within the prison system and raises questions about the management of inmates with severe psychological issues. As Bendall continues to serve his life sentences, the ramifications of his actions extend beyond the immediate victims, affecting the broader prison community.
