“HMP Wealstun Officer Admits Inappropriate Relationship with Prisoner Ahead of August Sentencing”

 Megann Gibson — HMP Wealstun (Yorkshire)

• In June 2025, 26‑year‑old Megann Gibson pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office and possession of cannabis.

 Misconduct Details:

• Engaged in sexual communications with a serving inmate (via telephone).

• Allowed the inmate access to restricted prison areas.

• Sent over 900 messages to the inmate’s mother to sustain the contact

• Visited the inmate’s resettlement accommodation after release2

 Legal & Career Consequences:

• Suspended from her position at HMP Wealstun.

• Awaiting sentencing in August 2025, with the presiding judge warning she "may well be serving a prison sentence.

 Contextual Factors:

• Defence counsel disclosed that Gibson was undergoing diagnosis for mental health issues, including PTSD, related to a prior relationship.

• The judge emphasised the “serious matter” nature of her offence.

Broader Trends & Implications

• These misconduct cases often involve inexperienced or emotionally vulnerable staff, blurred professional boundaries, and contraband facilitation.

• Many include extensive communication, misuse of internal privileges, and direct breaches of security protocols.

• A notable trend: female officers have disproportionately appeared in recent cases, often with heavier outcomes

Final Thoughts

• Megann Gibson’s case is typical of a serious breach of professional ethics, escalating from sexual communication to misuse of privileged access.

• Expect custodial sentencing in August, given the judge’s warning and precedent patterns.

• Each case underscores the critical need for better training, mental health support, and oversight within prison staff roles.