Ben Gunn

John "Ben" Gunn (born 1965) is a British consultant, writer, and campaigner on issues relating to prison life and justice. Convicted of murder at the age of 14, he served 32 years in prison before being released on licence.

Background

Gunn grew up in Ystradgynlais, Powys, Wales, the youngest of seven children. He began to behave disruptively, and, as his father had been absent since his early childhood, his eldest sister had him placed in a children's home as she was unable to cope. Gunn called an ambulance, remained at the scene, and confessed immediately. by including his blog posts in letters to his partner, who scanned or typed the material and uploaded it on his behalf. While in prison, he also wrote for Inside Time, a newspaper for prisoners.

Post-release career

Gunn was released on licence on 22 August 2012, after 32 years' confinement. He resumed his relationship with Alex and they lived together (named after a Zen monk and meaning "Silent Thunder") now manages his media appearances and provides services related to criminal justice and prison issues.

Gunn continues to campaign on prisoners' rights, prison reform, and on matters relating to false allegations of child abuse.

He has written a number of opinion pieces for The Guardian.