Inmates in tears over Upper Hutt death

Rimutaka Prison, where Patrick Lewis worked with violent inmates. File photo / Mark Mitchell

A man who died after he was allegedly assaulted outside his Upper Hutt home was a Christian who helped prisoners get their lives back on track.

Patrick Brent Lewis, 50, was allegedly assaulted in Trentham about 10.30pm on Sunday and died soon after.

Mr Lewis's boss and friend, Prison Fellowship general manager Barry Timms told the Dominion Post the prisoners in the unit of Wellington's Rimutaka Prison where Mr Lewis worked were reduced to tears when they heard of his death.

Mr Lewis had worked at the faith-based unit at Rimutaka Prison since it was set up in 2003 and worked with inmates jailed for violent crimes.

Mr Timms said Mr Lewis worked at the prison because he believed he could make a difference

An 18-year-old, shop assistant was charged with assault in connection with Mr Lewis's death.

The man was released on bail after appearing Upper Hutt District Court yesterday.

Police are awaiting the results of post-mortem examination expected today.

- NZPA