A repeat offender who showed no remorse after attempting to smother his elderly cellmate with a pillow has been handed an 18-year sentence including an extended licence period for dangerousness.
Christopher Sweeney, 44, was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court on Friday following his guilty plea to attempted murder on 25 April 2025. The court imposed a 13-year custodial term with an additional five-year extended licence reflecting his classification as a dangerous offender.
Detective Constable Natalie Gooderham of Nottinghamshire Police stated: “Sweeney is a persistent and dangerous offender, and from his own admissions he clearly planned the attack. From his initial police interview to today, he has shown no concern or remorse for his actions.”
The attack occurred on 10 January 2025 at HM Prison Nottingham in Sherwood, where Sweeney had been sharing a cell with a man in his 70s for approximately one week. He jumped down from the top bunk and held a pillow over the victim’s face for about a minute before the elderly prisoner managed to push him off.
When an officer first responded to the incident, bodycam footage captured Sweeney stating: “I want him dead.” He later told investigators during a police interview that he wanted to murder his cellmate because of behavioural issues including snoring and passing wind.
DNA analysis of the pillow recovered from the scene confirmed genetic material from both Sweeney and his intended victim, corroborating the physical evidence of the attack.
Sweeney, who has served multiple jail sentences for various offences throughout his criminal career, admitted during his police interview that he had failed in his murder attempt. Derbyshire Constabulary investigated additional offences for which he was also jailed.
DC Gooderham praised the victim’s response to the life-threatening situation, stating: “Thanks to the victim fighting for his survival, Sweeney’s plan failed.”
She expressed hope the victim could find comfort knowing his attacker would spend an extended period behind bars, emphasizing the seriousness with which authorities treat violence within the prison system.
The extended licence component of Sweeney’s sentence means he will remain under supervision for five years following his release from the 13-year custodial portion, with strict conditions designed to protect public safety. Breach of these conditions could result in immediate recall to prison.
The dangerous offender designation reflects the court’s assessment that Sweeney poses a significant ongoing risk, warranting enhanced monitoring beyond a standard prison sentence. This classification requires consideration of previous convictions, the nature of the current offence, and the likelihood of future offending.
Sweeney will serve the majority of his custodial term before becoming eligible for parole consideration, with release only granted if authorities determine he no longer presents an unacceptable risk. The extended licence period will then apply for the full five years regardless of when release occurs during the custodial phase.
