Arabic version: العثور على الممثل السابق جون ألفورد ميتًا في السجن

John Alford, the 54-year-old actor known for his roles in ‘Grange Hill’ and ‘London’s Burning,’ has died in prison just two months after being sentenced for sexually assaulting two teenage girls. Alford, whose real name was John Shannon, was found dead at HMP Bure in Norfolk.

According to BBC News, Alford was sentenced to eight and a half years in jail following his conviction for sexual offenses against the two teenagers, aged 15 and 14. A Prison Service spokesman confirmed his death, stating that the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate as is standard procedure for deaths in custody.

Alford’s trial took place at St Albans Crown Court, where he was found guilty of multiple counts of sexual activity with the younger girl as well as sexual assault and assault by penetration against the older teenager. The incidents occurred in April 2022 when he provided the girls with alcohol at a friend’s house in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire.

During sentencing on January 14, 2026, Recorder Caroline Overton noted the “significant and ongoing impact” of the offenses on the victims’ lives. Alford had previously faced legal troubles, including a nine-month prison sentence in 1997 for supplying drugs to an undercover journalist.

His career began in 1985 with a role in the BBC children’s series ‘Grange Hill,’ where he played Robbie Wright. He later gained fame in the ITV drama ‘London’s Burning’ as firefighter Billy Ray. However, his career was marred by legal issues and convictions, leading to a dramatic fall from grace.