Prison governor guilty of relationship with inmate

 A prison governor who began a relationship with a drug-dealing gang boss locked up in the jail she ran has been found guilty of two counts of misconduct in public office.

Kerri Pegg, 42, was seen as a "rising star" of the Prison Service, climbing the career ladder from graduate to governor at HMP Kirkham in Lancashire in six years.

But her trial heard she "didn't play by the rules" and began a relationship with major Liverpool crime figure Anthony Saunderson, helping him secure day release.

A jury at Preston Crown Court returned their verdict at the end of a two-week trial.

The trial heard how, when police raided Pegg's home in Orrell, Wigan, they found a toothbrush with Saunderson's DNA on it.

It also emerged Pegg, who was also found guilty of one count of possession of criminal property, had been given a gift of a £12,000 Mercedes C-class car by Saunderson, which was paid for from the proceeds of 34 kilos of amphetamines.

Saunderson had used the name Jesse Pinkman, a meth dealer in the hit TV show Breaking Bad, during his communications with other criminals, the trial heard.

He also went under the name James Gandolfini, the actor who played Tony Soprano in the mafia TV series.

Jurors heard Pegg was known to spend a lot of time in her office with the inmate and, in October 2018, he put in a request to be released on temporary licence.

Though such requests are routine there are specific rules for how they should be dealt with - rules which the governor broke.

She did not have authority to approve the release, but intervened and approved the application without notifying the official who should have dealt with it, it was found.

Pegg stood with her head bowed and showed no reaction as the foreman of the jury delivered the verdicts.

Judge Graham Knowles KC told her she can expect a custodial sentence, adding: "I have no choice but to send you to prison due to the gravity of your offending."

The trial heard Saunderson had developed and delivered a programme, titled BADD (Beating Alcohol and Drug Dependency) for inmates at several jails - while at the time being a major drug dealer, running an amphetamines factory.

Pegg claimed her contact with Saunderson was due to his involvement in the BADD programme.

But even members of his gang grumbled that their boss was spending too much time with Pegg and away from his wife and "work".

Giving evidence in her own defence, tearful Pegg claimed she had been "hands on" and "stupid" in her interactions with Saunderson, but insisted she had done nothing wrong.

Her defence barrister said she had been "naive".

But the prosecution showed how she had spent more and more time with the drugs boss as he came towards the end of his 10-year sentence.

Jurors were shown the Size 10 Hugo Boss flip-flops that had been found in her Wigan apartment, as well as a toothbrush.

Detectives found Pegg was living way beyond her means, buying designer jewellery and clothes including Jimmy Choo shoes and Chanel necklaces.

They found that despite her £3,000 a month income, she was deeply in debt and had not declared three County Court judgments which amounted to misconduct, as debts make officials vulnerable to corruption.

Her four credit cards were "maxed out" and she had 6p in her savings account, the court heard.

Barbara-Louise Webster, prosecuting, said Pegg had a promising future, but added: "Anthony Saunderson was her downfall."

Outside court, Tarryn McCaffrey, from the Crown Prosecution Service, said: "Kerri Pegg's conduct fell far short of what might be expected from any professional within the Prison Service, let alone one of such a senior grade as prison governor.

"She was clearly involved in an inappropriate relationship with Saunderson after he was released and the evidence points to this going back further, to a time when he was in jail.

"This relationship, and the fact that Pegg failed to disclose her debts to her employers, amount to a gross breach of trust and are therefore extremely damaging to public confidence."

A date for her sentencing is yet to be announced.

Transgender women in prision

 as qouted from the inside times

"I am a transgender woman, currently serving a sentence here at HMP Dovegate. I write in relation to one among many issues that we trans women ensure in men’s prisons in this country: the strip search policy for transgender prisoners.

The current policy is that when either entering or leaving the prison for court, hospital appointments, etc, we have the top half of our body searched by two female officers, who will then leave us to get dressed. Once we have done so, two male officers search the bottom half of our body.

I have been subjected to these undignified and downright humiliating searches countless times whilst in prison. The negative impact that they have on my mental health is incredible. I feel humiliated, violated, and my confidence is shattered each time. Most, if not all, transgender people are self-conscious about their bodies in some way, and so putting us through such an ordeal that forces us to reveal our post- or mid-transition bodies is both inhumane and traumatic.

Many trans people in and out of prison may feel the same as I do about these searches, so let’s do something about it. I have written to the Justice Secretary and my local MP regarding this matter and to ask whether, where available, X-ray scanners can be used instead of a full strip search. This would save us the distress of having to strip naked from the waist down in front of two male officers.

An X-ray machine is arguably more thorough than a strip search anyway, and has the added benefit of making the process less traumatic for transgender women in prison. I ask other trans women, both inside and outside prison, to join me in this fight for dignity. Let us get this policy updated so that it doesn’t cause unnecessary suffering to ourselves or our people."

My View

First things first, I want to start by saying this: you never thought about the inhuman and traumatic experiences you put your victims through.

secondly, you are NOT  a biological woman, as the court ruled, you are NOT a woman, you did the crime, so you will be doing the time and treated like any other man in prison.  if you don't like it, don't commit the crime. Just to remind these transgender prisoners of the new ruling

In recent months, the landscape surrounding transgender rights in the UK has shifted significantly due to a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court. This article explores the implications of this new law, focusing on its definitions and the potential impact on transgender individuals.

The Supreme Court Ruling

On April 15, 2025, the UK Supreme Court made a unanimous decision stating that the legal definition of a woman is based on biological sex. This ruling has sparked considerable debate and concern among various communities, particularly those advocating for transgender rights.

Key Points of the Ruling

1. Definition of Woman: The court clarified that, under equalities law, a woman is defined by her biological sex. This means that individuals who identify as women but are biologically male may not be recognized as women in legal contexts.

2. Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC): The ruling indicates that possessing a GRC does not change an individual's legal sex for the purposes of the law. This has raised questions about the rights of transgender individuals in various settings.

3. Implications for Public Spaces: The decision allows for the exclusion of trans men from men’s single-sex spaces and may also lead to their exclusion from women’s spaces, depending on the context.

Future Guidance and Regulations

Following the ruling, there is an expectation for updated guidance for public bodies. This guidance is anticipated to be released by the summer of 2025 and will outline how organizations should navigate the new legal landscape regarding gender identity.

What to Expect

• Public Bodies: Organizations will need to adapt their policies to align with the new legal definitions, which may affect how they handle issues related to gender identity.

• Community Reactions: Advocacy groups are likely to respond with calls for further protections and clarifications to ensure that the rights of transgender individuals are upheld.

Conclusion

The new transgender law, shaped by the Supreme Court's ruling, marks a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about gender identity and rights in the UK. As the situation evolves, it will be crucial for both individuals and organizations to stay informed about the implications of these changes. The conversation surrounding transgender rights is far from over, and many will be watching closely to see how these laws are implemented and challenged in the future.

The Experiences of Long-Term Prisoners in Category D Prisons

 

Introduction

The journey of long-term prisoners, particularly those serving life sentences, is often fraught with challenges and complexities. This article explores the experiences of a lifer who has spent over three decades in prison, specifically focusing on their time in Category D prisons. Through their narrative, we gain insight into the struggles faced by inmates in these facilities and the broader implications for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Life in Category D Prisons

Category D prisons, often referred to as open prisons, are designed for inmates who are considered low-risk and are nearing the end of their sentences. These facilities offer a more relaxed environment compared to higher security prisons, allowing inmates certain freedoms, such as the ability to work outside the prison and engage in community activities. However, the experience can vary significantly based on individual circumstances.

The Challenges Faced

The lifer in question has experienced two separate stints in Category D prisons, both of which ended in their return to closed conditions. They expressed a feeling of being "set up to fail" by the parole board. This sentiment highlights several key challenges:

1. Perception of Risk: Despite demonstrating good behavior and progress, the lifer faced allegations that included having a mobile phone and being a high suicide risk. These claims were based on intelligence reports rather than concrete evidence, raising questions about the reliability of such assessments.
2. Communication with Staff: The lifer attempted to communicate their progress to prison staff, even sending emails to confirm their positive behavior. However, this effort was met with skepticism, leading to further complications in their parole process.
3. Rehabilitation Concerns: The lifer argues that Category D prisons may not be suitable for long-term inmates. The transition from a highly controlled environment to a more open one can be jarring, and the lack of support for those with lengthy sentences can hinder rehabilitation efforts.

The Call for Change

In light of these experiences, the lifer has reached out to organizations like Voice for Cons, advocating for a poll to gather stories from other ex-prisoners and their loved ones. This initiative aims to shed light on the collective experiences of those who have navigated the complexities of Category D prisons. By sharing these narratives, the hope is to foster a better understanding of the unique challenges faced by long-term prisoners and to advocate for necessary reforms.

The Importance of Shared Experiences

Collecting and sharing stories from individuals who have been through similar situations can serve several purposes:

• Awareness: Raising awareness about the specific needs and challenges of long-term prisoners can help inform policy changes.
• Support Networks: Establishing connections among ex-prisoners can create a support system that aids in reintegration into society.
• Advocacy for Reform: Highlighting the inadequacies of the current system can push for reforms that better accommodate the needs of long-term inmates.

Conclusion

The experiences of long-term prisoners in Category D prisons reveal significant challenges that can impact their rehabilitation and reintegration. The lifer's story underscores the need for a more supportive and understanding approach to managing inmates who have served lengthy sentences. By sharing their experiences and advocating for change, there is potential for a more effective and humane prison system that recognizes the complexities of long-term incarceration.

This initiative aims to gather information from individuals who have been in Cat-D prisons and whose families have experienced the prison system. The goal is to collect insights that could potentially challenge existing legal practices.

Focus of the Poll

The poll will concentrate on the experiences and perspectives of former prisoners and their families. It seeks to understand their interactions with the legal system, particularly regarding the admissibility of certain types of information in court. The primary focus is on gathering "intel" that might be considered non-factual within the current legal framework.

Timeline and Participation

The poll is expected to launch in the coming weeks. Interested parties are encouraged to stay informed and participate. To receive updates and be notified of the poll's release, individuals are invited to subscribe and follow

Prison worker caught on CCTV in fling with Zara Aleena's killer is jailed

 according to the mirror

"Hayley Jones, 34, had 'inappropriate interactions' with Jordan McSweeney while at HMP Belmarsh in 2023 that included 'embracing', 'kissing' and pretending to be 'throttled'

A prison workshop instructor who had an "inappropriate relationship" with Zara Aleena's murderer has been jailed for nine months. Between March 6, 2023 to April 7, 2023, Hayley Jones was seen kissing and touching Jordan McSweeney on CCTV at HMP Belmarsh in London.

Mum-of-one Jones, 34, had previously admitted misconduct in public office at Woolwich Crown Court at the end of October last year. She reappeared at the court today wearing a black buttoned-up top and appeared impassive, with arms folded, as she was sentenced by Judge David Miller. McSweeney, 31, was jailed in December 2022 for a minimum of 38 years for the murder by strangulation and sexual assault of Zara, 35, in the early hours of June 26 of that year. This was reduced to 33 years after a Court of Appeal bid.

Polly Dwyer, prosecuting, said that Jones, of Strood in Kent, was a, "Band 3 workshop instructor having moved to that role on 16 December 2019". McSweeney was an inmate at the prison having been transferred there on April 8 2022.

"On the 15 December, 2022 he was of course convicted of murder and sexual assault and sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 33 years for murder," she said. She went on to describe the "concerns" raised about the pair's relationship following a report by an employee at the maximum security prison on April 5, 2023, who witnessed them holding hands.

"Ms Jones and Mr McSweeney were seen with their faces very close together (and) on seeing him they parted. Ms Jones queried whether she had anything on her forehead and Mr McSweeney walked away quickly," said Ms Dwyer.

"The individual who made a report, on entering the workshop area, heard one of the prisoners say something along the lines of: 'it looks like they like each other'."

McSweeney boasted of "'f*****g the fat thing in the workshop" as well as about receiving illegal contraband from her in a letter to a fellow inmate, which was later intercepted by police. After Jones was arrested, a poem written by McSweeney for her was also found in her home.

Ms Dwyer said CCTV footage covering the indictment period revealed '"inappropriate interactions between Ms Jones and Mr McSweeney on a daily basis". She went on to state that Jones' offending "undermines the discipline of the prison system and public confidence in it".

Rosalie Myttas-Perris, defending, asked why McSweeney, as a prisoner with a "history of aggression and violence, including towards prison officers", was given an "orderly job" and allowed to "roam around as freely as we have seen him roaming around in the CCTV".

"It is always Mr McSweeney who initiates the inappropriate interactions," she said, adding: "Ms Jones previously reported him for making her feel uncomfortable, no actions were taken - I don't say that as an excuse. No doubt she went along because unfortunately it is an easy thing to do - he has shown an interest in her, he was paying her compliments and sharing things with her, and sadly she didn't report it as she should have and no doubt that's a regret that will remain with her for the rest of her life.

"She accepts full responsibility and relays her sadness, regret and shame about what happened and how it impacted the victims, the community, the prison service and indeed her own family." Ms Myttas-Perris asked the judge to consider the consequences that immediate custody would have on Jones' son, 11, who suffers from Crohn's Disease.

However, having retired for 20 minutes to consider his decision, Judge Miller said: "There appears to be an established and obvious mutual fondness generally involving smiles, laughter and physical intimacy. There is absolutely no sign that this was unwanted by you or that the prisoner was imposing himself on you, as you gave every indication that you were enjoying the relationship.

"You appear to be fully complicit in it, for example making signs to one another to avoid anything inappropriate being seen by another. You were clearly aware that what you were doing was inappropriate. The interactions included playing games involving the prisoner, him riding on a trolley which you pulled, embracing, kissing, the prisoner touching you, your hair, your ear, your neck, which he pretended to throttle, and playfully slapping you, cheek-patting or pinching your bottom, touching you in the area of your prison keys."

"It is not known what took place off-camera, save to say that there is footage of both of you emerging from an off-camera area adjusting your clothing. You have accepted that there was kissing and touching but no intercourse."

The judge questioned how "those affected by Mr McSweeney's crimes must feel" upon learning about Jones' relationship with the prisoner. He continued: "I'm afraid that I do consider that adequate punishment can only be achieved by imposing a prison sentence that is not suspended. This was persistent conduct, you had received training, you were an experienced prison officer."

The judge said she would serve 'no more than half' of the nine months and will be subject to period of supervision for one year and upon release. Jones was ordered to pay a £187 surcharge.

Police investigate alleged attack on prison officer by Southport killer

According to the BBC

"Police are investigating an attack on a prison officer by Southport killer Axel Rudakubana on Thursday, it is understood.

The officer had boiling water thrown over them. They were taken to hospital and discharged on the same day, the Ministry of Justice said.

The Prison Service said violence in prison "will not be tolerated and we will always push for the strongest possible punishment for attacks on our hardworking staff".

The attack, first reported by the Sun, external, has renewed concerns about the safety of prison officers, after an attack last month by Manchester Arena bomber Hashem Abedi at another prison.

Abedi attacked three prison officers at HMP Frankland by throwing hot cooking oil and using "home made weapons" to stab them, according to the Prison Officers' Association (POA).

The number of assaults on staff in adult prisons in England and Wales per year has reached its highest level in a decade, according to data from the Ministry of Justice.

In response to the rise in attacks, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood previously announced that the use of tasers will be trialled in prisons and confirmed the Prison Service will conduct a "snap review" of the use of protective body armour for prison officers.

Asked if prison officers are safe an interview with the BBC earlier this week, prisons minister James Timpson said: "I think it is fine to work in our prisons."

Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick said on Friday prison violence had become a "full blown crisis" and called for the justice secretary to act "now" in a post on X.

Tom Wheatley, president of the Prison Governors' Association, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that prison officers work "an incredibly difficult job" in "overcrowded conditions".

It is not clear how Rudakubana allegedly got hold of the hot water. Asked if dangerous prisoners should be allowed access to a kettle in their cell, Mr Wheatley said it was "lower risk" to allow prisoners to boil water in their rooms because the alternative was to have officers bring hot water to prisoners' cells.

"Prisoners have used all sorts of things to cause injury to other people," he added.

He continued: "Pretty much anything can be utilised to cause harm to somebody else. What we're really concerned about is the intent of people to do so."

Rudakubana killed Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Alice Aguiar, nine, and six-year-old Bebe King at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on 29 July 2024 in Southport.

He also attacked eight other children, class instructor Leanne Lucas, and businessman John Hayes, who had tried to disarm him.

The 18-year-old was jailed for a minimum of 52 years in January for three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder, and other offences including producing ricin, possessing terrorist material, and possessing a knife.

A public inquiry into the Southport murders began in April.

In February, the Attorney General rejected calls for the Court of Appeal to review the length of Rudakubana's jail sentence.

Rudakubana's minimum term of 52 years means he cannot be considered for release until he has served that amount of time in prison."

My View

No doubt that the P.O.A Is going to say that "our staff need stab proof vest and firearms" How the hell is a stab proof vest going to prevent someone getting boiled water thrown over them, i do not condone this violence, but at the end of the day, the P.O.A needs to look at their officers, as most of them, who are attacked are bullies, and speak to prisoners like shit. Prisoners do not always attack officers for no reason, i have been in prision for 35 years, and i have witnessed this, so i think the officers need more training in communication and to learn not to treat prisoners like animals

Introduction

In recent discussions surrounding prison safety, the Prison Officers' Association (P.O.A) has emphasized the necessity for officers to be equipped with stab-proof vests and firearms. However, this raises critical questions about the effectiveness of such measures in preventing violence within correctional facilities. A deeper examination reveals that the root causes of conflicts between officers and inmates may lie in communication and interpersonal skills.

The Limitations of Protective Gear

While stab-proof vests and firearms are designed to protect officers from physical harm, they do not address the underlying issues that lead to violent confrontations. For instance, a stab-proof vest cannot prevent an officer from being attacked with boiling water or other non-penetrative weapons. This highlights a significant gap in the current approach to prison safety, suggesting that merely increasing physical protection may not be the most effective solution.

The Role of Communication

Many experts argue that the relationship between prison officers and inmates is crucial in maintaining safety and order within correctional facilities. The assertion that "most of them who are attacked are bullies" points to a broader issue of how officers interact with inmates. Effective communication can play a pivotal role in de-escalating potential conflicts.

Key Areas for Improvement

1. Building Trust: Officers should develop skills to establish trust and rapport with inmates, which can lead to a more cooperative environment.
2. Conflict Resolution: Training in conflict resolution techniques can help officers manage tense situations without resorting to force.
3. De-escalation Techniques: Learning how to de-escalate conflicts can prevent situations from escalating into violence.

The Need for Comprehensive Training

The call for improved training in communication skills is echoed by many who have spent years observing the dynamics within prisons. With 35 years of experience, one individual noted that many attacks on officers are not unprovoked but rather a response to how inmates are treated. This perspective suggests that enhancing communication training for officers could lead to a significant reduction in violence.

Suggested Training Programs

• Advanced Interpersonal Communication Skills: Programs focusing on effective communication strategies in high-stress situations can equip officers with the tools they need to handle conflicts more effectively.
• Crisis Negotiation: Training in crisis negotiation can prepare officers to manage volatile situations without escalating tensions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the P.O.A's emphasis on protective gear is understandable, it is essential to recognize that the root causes of violence in prisons often stem from poor communication and interpersonal relationships. By investing in comprehensive training programs that focus on communication skills, the P.O.A can foster a safer environment for both officers and inmates. This approach not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also promotes a more respectful and humane treatment of individuals within the prison system.

Criminals who skip sentencing could face more jail time

 (according to bbc news)

Criminals who refuse to attend sentencing in England and Wales could face an additional two years in prison, under a new bill introduced in Parliament on Wednesday.

Additional powers for judges to punish offenders absent from sentencing will mean they cannot "opt out" of justice, victims' families have said.

"It is not about punishment through force - but about ensuring that perpetrators cannot remove themselves from the consequences of their actions," said the families of murdered primary school teacher Sabina Nessa, law graduate Zara Aleena and mother-of-three Jan Mustafa.

All of their loved ones' killers did not attend their sentencing hearings, prompting calls to change the law.

New measures under the Victims and Courts Bill could apply to any case in the Crown Court, including those who attend proceedings but are removed from court for disruptive behaviour - like Southport killer Axel Rudakubana.

Offenders already facing whole life orders could be confined to their cells and be stripped of privileges, like extra gym time, under the new bill.

Koci Selamaj is currently serving a life sentence after being convicted of murdering Ms Nessa whom he attacked in September 2021 as she walked through a park in south-east London.

He refused to turn up for his sentencing at the Old Bailey in April 2022 and since then Ms Nessa's sister, Jebina Yasmin Islam, has campaigned for changes to the law.

She believes the bill - which will only become law once it has been approved by MPs and the House of Lords - is a "step in the right direction".

"I just hope it will give some sort of peace and justice to victims' families," she told BBC Breakfast.

"When we went through the process we felt the process was on the defendants side but now I feel the victims are in the forefront."

The updated bill was introduced to Parliament on Wednesday, but still faces a vote in the House of Commons and the House of Lords

The next stage will be the plans facing a second reading in the Commons, which is the first time MPs can debate and vote on the measures reaching the next stage.

Ayse Hussein, cousin of Ms Mustafa, said it was "quite insulting" when double killer Zahid Younis refused to hear victim impact statements they had been asked to prepare ahead of his sentencing in 2020.

"To be told he was not attending, we were not aware that was a thing at the time, so it was really shocking for us to be told he was going to be staying in his cell," she told the BBC.

"Why put a family through so much pain at the beginning writing these impact statements to be reading it to an empty dock. It's very painful, it's heartbreaking."

• Sabina Nessa: Family calls absent-from-court murderer a coward
• Zara Aleena: The prolific offender who murdered a law graduate
• How warnings about Heni and Jan's killer were missed

Ms Aleena was murdered in June 2022 as she walked home after having drinks with a friend in Ilford, east London.

Jordan McSweeney, from Dagenham, was captured on CCTV stalking the streets of Ilford approaching women before he pounced on and fatally beat Ms Aleena.

McSweeney refused to attend his sentencing at the Old Bailey when he was jailed for a minimum of 38 years.

In November 2023, three Court of Appeal judges reduced McSweeney's sentence by five years - much to the "extreme disappointment" of Ms Aleena's family.

Reacting to the latest developments, Ms Aleena's aunt Farah Naz said she views the proposed bill as a "symbolic balance of power" both to the victims and to the law.

"The simpler the deterrent, the simpler the measure, the simpler the punishment - like additional time to a sentence - the better and the more likely we are to having these measures being implemented."

Powers already exist to compel people to attend court but National Chair of the Prison Officers Association Mark Fairhurst explained why they are often not used by judges.

He told BBC Breakfast: "To restrain someone to the dock, has its risks.

"If we have cuffed them in the dock and they continue to be disruptive and abusive that could be even more traumatic for the victims and their families."

Mr Fairhurst said an extra two years in prison for someone facing a lengthy jail term "doesn't make any difference" but he said restricting family visits to being behind glass and criminals not being eligible for parole were other options which could be considered.

In January, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised to follow through on the legislation - initiated by the previous Conservative government - after meeting Cheryl Korbel.

Her daughter, Olivia Pratt-Korbel, was shot dead in her home in August 2022, aged nine. Olivia's killer Thomas Cashman did not attend court as he was jailed for 42 years.

Anneliese Midgley, Ms Korbel's MP, said: "This law is down in no small part to my constituent Cheryl Korbel. I am so proud of her.

"Sentencing is not just a legal formality; it is the culmination of justice. That's why it's so important that justice is not only done, but seen to be done."

Justice Minister Alex Davies-Jones said: "I would like to thank the remarkable families of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, Jan Mustafa, Sabina Nessa and Zara Aleena and countless others who have campaigned tirelessly for offenders to have to face the reality of their crimes by attending their sentencing."

"Justice isn't optional - we'll make sure criminals face their victims," she added.

(My View)

The Impact of Increased Jail Time for Sentencing Skippers

The discussion centers around the proposed increase in jail time for criminals who fail to appear for their sentencing. The core of the argument suggests that while this may affect individuals serving shorter sentences, its impact on those with longer sentences, particularly those serving 10 years to life, may be negligible.

The Argument: Concurrent vs. Consecutive Sentences

The primary concern revolves around the nature of sentencing. For those serving lengthy terms, any additional time added due to skipping sentencing is likely to run concurrently with their existing sentence. This means the new time is served at the same time as the original sentence, effectively adding no extra time to their overall period of incarceration.

• Shorter Sentences: Individuals serving sentences within the range of 1 to 9 years could see a direct impact, as the additional time would extend their release date.
• Longer Sentences: For those serving 10 years to life, the impact is minimal, as the added time would likely be served concurrently, not consecutively.

Potential Consequences

The argument further suggests that this policy could exacerbate the existing challenges within the prison system.

• Increased Strain: The proposal could potentially overload the prison system, as the additional time served by some offenders could lead to overcrowding and resource constraints.
• Ineffectiveness: The policy might be ineffective in deterring individuals with lengthy sentences from skipping sentencing, as the added penalty would not significantly affect their overall time served.

Overall Assessment

The debate highlights the complexities of the justice system and the potential unintended consequences of new policies. While the intention behind the proposal may be to increase accountability, the practical impact on different categories of offenders needs careful consideration. The potential for increased strain on the prison system and the limited deterrent effect on those serving longer sentences raise questions about the overall effectiveness of the policy.

Prison staff fling inmate jailed again

 (according to BBC News)

A man who had inappropriate relationships with two prison staff members and escaped in handcuffs from hospital has been sent back to jail.

Harri Pullen, 27, was arrested in Newport with crack cocaine on 2 April, but after being taken to hospital for head pain, he fled in a getaway car and was found a week later hiding in a rural farmhouse.

While serving a previous four-year sentence at HMP Parc in Bridgend, he had inappropriate romances with a jail nurse and a prison officer - one of whom was convicted, while the other sacked.

Pullen pleaded guilty to 11 offences, including drug possession, escaping custody, and dangerous driving, and has been sentenced to six more years in prison.

Former prison nurse Elyse Hobbs, 27, from Newbridge, Caerphilly county, was jailed for having an inappropriate relationship with Pullen while he was behind bars.

Ruth Shmylo, 26, lost her job as a prison officer over an alleged relationship with Pullen, who contacted her through secret calls from his cell.

Although she admitted emotional distress and failing to report the contact, she was found not guilty of misconduct in public office.

Newport Crown Court heard that Pullen was arrested on 2 April after plain-clothed officers spotted two men acting suspiciously on an e-bike in Newport city centre on 26 March.

Prosecutor Alex Granville said Pullen was found with five wraps of crack cocaine, a burner phone, an iPhone and £90 in a black bum bag.

After being taken into custody, he complained of head pain and was taken to the Grange University Hospital in Cwmbran, Torfaen, where he escaped in handcuffs by running through the hospital grounds and jumping into a waiting getaway car.

He was found hiding in a farmhouse outside Newport and attempted to flee once more, this time in a Mercedes, but officers followed him to a cul-de-sac and he surrendered after a police dog joined the chase.

Julia Cox, defending, said Pullen was "immature" and suffered from "hypochondria" believing he has had a brain tumour for about four years.

She added: "This was not anything that was pre-planned. It was more opportunistic than that."

Ms Cox said, when members of his family tried to visit him in hospital but were told they could not stay, Pullen "lost his head".

Pullen pleaded guilty to 11 charges including possession with intent to supply crack cocaine, dangerous driving and escaping lawful custody.

Judge Daniel Williams sentenced Pullen to six years, after which he said: "Thank you and I apologise."

(on a different BBC Article related to this topic)

A prison officer who had phone sex with an inmate has been found not guilty of misconduct in public office.

Ruth Shmylo, 26, of Treforest, Rhondda Cynon Taf, was cleared at Cardiff Crown Court on Thursday.

The charges related to a period between December 2020 and April 2021 when Ms Shmylo worked at HMP Parc in Bridgend.

The trial heard she did not report issues, including that she had phone sex with prisoner Harri Pullen, a convicted drug dealer.

Ms Shmylo's probation period at HMP Parc was terminated in April 2021 but communications continued between the two after she had been dismissed and he was moved to a prison in Manchester.

These were were used in evidence to prove a relationship existed between the two while at HMP Parc.

Ms Shmylo told the court that Pullen threatened her and her family and, because of her poor relationship with other staff at HMP Parc, she had not felt able to report the problem.

The trial heard how Ms Shmylo began working at Parc prison in August 2020 and Pullen was moved to her wing shortly afterwards.

• Concerns over prison guard and inmate, court told
• Ex-prison officer and inmate had phone sex - court
• Accused guard says she feared for her life

HMP Parc's head of security Daniel Hayman told the trial that Ms Shmylo had been given training in issues such as anti-corruption and how to deal with manipulative prisoners.

In December 2020, Pullen passed a piece of paper to Ms Shmylo while the two were in the prison servery with a mobile phone number on it.

Ms Shmylo said that when she pushed the piece of paper back, Pullen had made a threat to her, asking: "Do you know what you've just done?"

Asked by defence barrister Clare Wilks why she did not report this Ms Shmylo said: "He would have known it was me."

She knew of Pullen's links to organised crime, she added, and that reporting him would therefore have "come with repercussions".

Ms Shmylo insisted that the phone sex had been initiated by Pullen, that she "repeatedly" asked him to stop and viewed them as incidents of "sexual harassment".

In some of the conversations, Ms Shmylo could be heard laughing, telling jokes and lightly teasing Pullen - behaviour, said the prosecution, that did not support her claims that she was reluctant to speak to him.

Ms Shmylo insisted that she thought engaging in conversations was the only way of "trying to damage control the situation".

Inmate dies suddenly at Parc Prison

 according to bbc news

A man has died suddenly at a prison which saw the most inmate deaths in Wales and England last year.

South Wales Police confirmed the sudden death of a 49-year-old man at Bridgend's HMP Parc on 1 March.

The force said there did not appear to be any suspicious circumstances and the coroner had been informed.

It comes as 17 inmates were known to have died at Parc in 2024 - more than any other prison.

Security company G4S, which runs HMP Parc, has confirmed this number and it is understood eight deaths were due to natural causes.

Three prisoners were also taken to hospital following disorder at the prison in June.

At least four of the deaths are believed to be drug-related.

Families of inmates who died while in a prison protested outside the facility in May, saying they wanted answers from authorities following claims of drug misuse within the jail.

HMP Parc is one of the UK's largest category B prisons, holding convicted male adult and young offenders, as well as convicted sex offenders and those awaiting trial for sex offences.

G4S previously said it has a "zero-tolerance policy towards drugs".

 On channel 5 

there is a tv program called "dead-man walking," talking about the death penalty, and if it should be brought back?

this is the question we are asking you

should it be brought back?

in my view, the death penalty should be brought back for murder, and any type of pedophillia, tell me your views on this in the comment section 

Drugs found almost 900 times at Parc Prison in a year before 'worrying' inspection

 More than half of prisoners at the troubled Parc Prison told inspectors it was easy to access drugs, while just over a third at two of the main wings said they had developed a drug or alcohol problem since arriving at the jail.

That's according to the findings of an inspection in January, which revealed that almost 900 drugs finds were made in the year before the Bridgend prison was inspected.

The prison has come under increased scrutiny in recent years, with 17 inmates having died at HMP Parc in 2024 – more than at any other prison that year.

The inspection found that levels of violence remained high, which prisoners attributed to "frustration with a lack of consistency in the daily regime, boredom, long periods locked up, the widespread availability of drugs and not having enough to eat".

The report also found that levels of self-harm remained high and had increased by 58% since the last inspection.

However, it noted that since the arrival of a new director in June 2024, the recruitment, retention and morale of officers had improved, and while "far too many drugs were still getting into the prison", "it was clear that Parc had begun to recover".

G4S, which runs Parc, said it is "working tirelessly on a comprehensive improvement plan to once again deliver excellent services at HMP Parc".

The HM Inspectorate of Prisons report said the transition to a new management contract at the prison was at the root of many of its problems, at a time when its former director had left along with other senior leaders. The report said: "This had fundamentally destabilised the prison and left it unable to grip the problems it faced."

The report said: "The new director arrived in June 2024 and since then had set about resetting the jail. He had stabilised the leadership team, and improved the recruitment, retention and morale of officers. At the time of our inspection, there had been no more drug-related or self-inflicted deaths since his arrival.

"He and his team were in no doubt about the challenges that they faced. The prison had become far too violent; levels of self-harm (already too high at our last inspection) had increased by 60%. Despite the impressive commitment of the security team, which had made nearly 900 drugs finds in the last year, there were far too many drugs getting into the jail."

Chief Inspector Charlie Taylor, of HM Inspectorate of Prisons, said: “The staff team, which was used to being proud of the place at which they worked, had been through a very difficult time, but there were signs that things were beginning to turn around. "Partnership working between prison leaders and the new education provider had begun to improve, as had the regime and practical release planning arrangements.

“Inspectors left the jail with some assurance that Parc had begun to recover, morale was better, and pride was beginning to return.

"Practically, if G4S and the prison service are able to expedite the replacement of windows which are vulnerable to drone deliveries and to provide enhanced gate security, that will help to reduce supply of drugs. If the current director remains in place and he receives the support he needs from the provider and the prison service, then there can be optimism that the early signs of improvement at this important prison can begin to be consolidated and sustained.”

A spokesperson for HMP Parc said: "The first six months of 2024 were extremely difficult and our thoughts remain with the families and loved ones of the men that passed away. Since then, considerable work has been carried out to make significant improvements at the prison.

“We are encouraged that HMIP recognises that we are making solid progress and noted positive developments in tackling violence, self-harm rates and use of force.

“We are determined to ensure the men in our care are safe, supported and can feel optimistic about their futures, and we are working tirelessly on a comprehensive improvement plan to once again deliver excellent services at HMP Parc. Our plan includes all of HMIP’s recommendations."

 

Tasers in prisons to be trialled after Abedi attack

Written by

Frankie Desmond (Voice for Cons)

in

Uncategorized

“The use of Tasers in prisons will be trialled after officers were injured by the brother of the Manchester Arena bomber, the justice secretary has said.

The Prison Officers’ Association (POA) had called for staff to have access to electric stun guns in light of Hashem Abedi’s use of makeshift weapons to attack staff at HMP Frankland, a high-security prison in County Durham.

Shabana Mahmood told the Commons on Tuesday: “Wherever we can strengthen our defences, to better protect our staff and the public, we will do so.”

However, POA chairman Mark Fairhurst told the BBC he did not believe a trial was necessary and called for their use to be rolled out “before one of my members is murdered”.

Three officers received hospital treatment after the attack on 12 April. One remains in hospital in a stable condition, while two others have since been discharged.

At the time of the attack Abedi was held in a separation wing used to house the most dangerous and extremist prisoners.

However, he had access to a kitchen, where he was able to heat cooking oil and fashion weapons from equipment which he used to assault the officers.

Following calls for urgent action to keep prison staff safer, Mahmood confirmed HM Prison and Probation service would begin a trial on the use of electric stun guns.

It is due to be launched in the summer and will be limited to facilities housing adult males.

She said a separate independent review into the attack would “ascertain how this incident was able to happen, what more must be done to protect prison staff and, more widely, how separation centres are run”.

Mahmood has previously ordered a “snap review” into the use of protective body armour for prison staff.

She paid tribute to the “bravery of the officers involved that day”, which she said “undoubtedly saved lives”.

Mr Fairhurst, who is due to meet the justice secretary on Wednesday, said the attack had been a clear indication that officers faced urgent danger, and disputed the need for a trial period before allowing prison staff access to electric stun guns.

“The police force has used this equipment for years, we know it’s effective,” he said.

Mr Fairhurst said the equipment should be rolled out in all high-security facilities and used by specially trained staff. He continued: “If not, our lives are on the line.”

Currently, prison officers are only able to carry an extendable baton and synthetic pepper spray.

Abedi, who helped his older brother Salman plan the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, was jailed for life with a minimum 55 years in prison after being convicted of murdering 22 people.

He had been moved to Frankland after carrying out an earlier attack on prison officers in London’s Belmarsh prison in 2020, for which three years and 10 months was added to his sentence.”

Introduction

The management of prisons is a multifaceted issue that involves balancing security, rehabilitation, and the humane treatment of inmates. Recent discussions have emerged regarding the introduction of stun guns for prison officers, raising concerns about potential abuses of power and the implications for inmate-staff relations. This article explores these concerns through the lens of an individual with extensive experience in the prison system.

The Potential for Abuse of Power

Stun Guns and Increased Violence

The introduction of stun guns in prisons is viewed by some as a misguided approach to managing inmate behavior. Critics argue that arming officers with such devices may escalate violence rather than mitigate it. The perspective of a long-term inmate suggests that the presence of stun guns could lead to more aggressive interactions between staff and prisoners. This viewpoint emphasizes a fundamental principle: respect. When inmates are treated with dignity, they are more likely to respond positively.

The Role of Respect in Prison Dynamics

Respect is a two-way street. The assertion that “if you treat a prisoner like an animal, they will act like an animal” underscores the importance of humane treatment. Inmates often feel marginalized and bullied by prison staff, which can exacerbate tensions within the facility. The focus on punitive measures, such as the Incentives and Earned Privileges (I.E.P.) scheme, is seen as a form of bullying rather than a constructive approach to rehabilitation.

Staff Inexperience and Communication Challenges

The Need for Training

A significant issue highlighted is the inexperience of prison staff. Many officers lack the necessary training to handle complex situations, particularly those involving inmates with serious mental health issues. This gap in knowledge can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. Instead of resorting to force, staff should be equipped with skills in communication and conflict resolution.

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness

Inmates often struggle with mental health challenges, which can manifest in various ways. The argument is made that prison officers should be trained to recognize and respond to these issues effectively. By fostering an environment of understanding and support, the likelihood of violent incidents may decrease.

The Role of Technology in Prisons

Drones and Security Concerns

As of 2025, the use of drones in prisons has primarily been associated with the smuggling of contraband, such as drugs and mobile phones. The concern is that introducing stun guns could lead to a further escalation in the types of contraband entering prisons, including firearms. This potential for increased violence raises questions about the effectiveness of current security measures and the need for a more comprehensive approach to prison management.

The Distinction Between Officers and Police

A critical point made is the distinction between prison officers and police officers. The role of a prison officer should focus on rehabilitation and maintaining order within the facility, rather than adopting a law enforcement mentality. This shift in perspective is essential for creating a more positive environment for both staff and inmates.

Conclusion

The debate surrounding the introduction of stun guns in prisons highlights significant concerns about the potential for abuse of power and the need for improved communication and training among staff. By prioritizing respect and understanding, the prison system can work towards reducing violence and fostering a more rehabilitative environment. As discussions continue, it is crucial to consider the long-term implications of these policies on both inmates and staff, ensuring that the focus remains on humane treatment and effective rehabilitation.