Axe killer bashed in jail
Axe murderer Marcus Rappel is under protection after he was bashed at the Alexander Maconochie Centre.
Rappel – who is serving 32 years in prison for killing his partner Tara Costigan with an axe as she held their newborn – was attacked in his jail cell last month.
It is understood the attack left Rappel with facial bruising, however, he did not require hospitalisation.
A Justice and Community Safety Directorate spokeswoman confirmed a detainee had been assaulted in the accommodation unit north about 6pm on April 19.
"The incident was not observed by custodial staff but as soon as staff became aware of the incident health staff were informed," the spokeswoman said.
"Following assessment the detainee remained at the Alexander Maconochie Centre. The incident was quickly responded to and according to normal procedures.
"ACT Corrective Services has implemented measures to protect the detainee as is usual after incidents of this kind."
JACS said the matter had been referred to ACT Policing and ACT Corrective Services had worked to assist investigating officers, which included supplying CCTV footage and other evidence related to the incident.
ACT Policing confirmed it had launched an investigation into the alleged assault of a 43-year-old man at the AMC.
"No charges have been laid at this time, however, the investigation remains ongoing," a police spokeswoman said.
JACS said recent security upgrades, such as more CCTV cameras, in response to the Moss review, and a strengthened memorandum of understanding between Corrective Services and ACT Policing had lead to a number of prosecutions for assaults at the jail.
"This investment is assisting with the investigation of assaults so that offenders can be held accountable," the spokeswoman said.
"It demonstrates that the intent of the Moss Review for pro-investigation and prosecution is being achieved."
Rappel is himself currently before the courts accused of being one of a gang of five prisoners who bashed two brothers at the jail last year.
Rappel pleaded not guilty to a charge of recklessly inflicting grievous bodily harm on one brother, and assault causing actual bodily harm on the other.
Both brothers required hospital treatment after they were bashed separately in attacks in their AMC cells on August 7.
The matter has been committed to the ACT Supreme Court for trial.