The family of murdered gangster Carl Williams wants $1 million from the Victorian prison system for pain and suffering caused by his brutal jail death.

 

Roberta Williams, the ex-wife of gangland king-pin Carl Williams.

A writ could be served as early as today - the anniversary of Williams’ murder at Barwon Prison, the Herald Sun reports.

The writ is expected to include a claim for benefits negotiated by the Williams in return for co-operating in a major criminal investigation.It follows yesterday's scathing Ombudsman’s report which said prison authorities knew there was a risk Williams could be murdered in jail but failed in its statutory duty to protect him.

The writ will be issued in the names of Williams father, George, his ex-wife Roberta, daughter Dhakota and stepdaughter, Breanane.

Leading barrister Dyson Hore-Lacy, SC, has reportedly been engaged along with junior counsel.

‘‘We are ready to commence proceedings but we have been waiting for the outcome of one of the investigations,’’ solicitor Nicole Spicer was quoted as saying.

Williams was bashed to death with the stem of an exercise bike by fellow Barwon Prison inmate Matthew Charles Johnson on April 19, 2010.

Ombudsman George Brouwer has heavily criticised Corrections Victoria over failings in the lead-up to the murder.

Mr Brouwer said Corrections Victoria failed in its statutory duty to ensure Williams’ safety.

‘‘This case also highlights several shortcomings which need to be addressed by Corrections Victoria in its administration of Victoria’s correctional system,’’ he said.

‘‘Victoria Police did not undertake a comprehensive risk assessment in relation to Mr Johnson and the potential harm he posed to Mr Williams.’’