A sex offender has died at probation premises - the first death since 2009.

William Smith, 62, died at approved premises on Landguard Road to rehabilitate ex-offenders on October 1, 2023.

He died of a heart attack and had a history of heart disease and diabetes, for which he was prescribed medication.

Smith had been staying at Landguard Road since his release from prison in March 2023.

A report by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman said that on the night of his death, Mr Smith was given "appropriate measures of support" and "no issues of concern" were found with the assistance staff gave him.

On the evening of September 30, 2023, Smith did not come out of his room to socialise with other residents, which was unusual for him.

He was heard coughing throughout the evening and reported that he did not feel well during a routine welfare check at 11pm.

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Mr Smith confirmed he had taken his medication and declined to speak to NHS’ non-emergency 111 number.

He was observed sleeping on his back and breathing at 2.17am, October 1.

When checked at 7.07am, a residential worker found Mr Smith unconscious and phoned for an emergency ambulance.

Smith’s body was cold to touch, and while the worker started CPR, he stopped after two minutes believing it was futile.

Paramedics confirmed that Mr Smith had died.

In September 2017, former newsagent Mr Smith admitted four charges of rape involving two young girls over a three year-period and was sentenced to prison for 11 years.

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Mr Smith was initially sent to HMP Exeter where he reported a history of heart disease.

He was admitted to hospital for a suspected heart attack in October 2017.

Mr Smith was transferred to HMP Isle of Wight in November 2017, HMP Woodhill in January 2019 and finally HMP The Verne in 2021.

During his time at The Verne, he was referred to hospital for heart disease and diabetes, before being accepted at Landguard Road.