Anthony Mitchell, a convicted paedophile, has died in prison while serving a 21-year sentence for abusing young boys in his football team
Mitchell was convicted back in 2015. He used his role to gain access to boys aged 11 and 12. He would give them drinks or sleeping pills before the abuse occurred during trips.
At the time of his sentencing, he was 78 and had cancer. He died in his cell at HMP Dartmoor on January 30, 2023, at the age of 86.
An inquest revealed he was in the late stages of leukaemia and receiving palliative care. The cause of death was determined to be carcinoma of the oesophagus, a rare cancer.
Before his death, he had a blood transfusion and seemed to be in good spirits. Sadly, he was found dead two days later.
The coroner noted that his oesophageal cancer was likely a secondary issue from his previous non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Mitchell’s actions had lasting effects on his victims, one of whom turned down professional opportunities due to the trauma. His crimes came to light after high-profile cases like Rolf Harris and Jimmy Savile.
He had manipulated his GP to get sedatives, which he used on his victims. The judge at his trial highlighted the severe psychological harm he caused.
Mitchell denied several serious charges but was ultimately convicted. He was also placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely.
