Livvy Edney, 44, a prison officer at HMP Channings Wood in Devon, was jailed for six months after secretly forming a relationship with inmate Paul Young, a convicted rapist serving a sentence for assault by penetration.
The relationship began in November 2022 when Edney became Young’s supervisor, prompting a police and prison investigation into misconduct.
Prison officials grew suspicious and transferred Young to another facility in January 2023. Edney then used two pay-as-you-go mobile phones registered under false names and a relative’s address to maintain covert contact with Young.
Recorded calls revealed declarations of love, poetry readings, and plans for a holiday to Venice after Young’s release.
Edney was arrested at her Torquay home in March 2023. During police interviews, she denied the relationship and knowledge of the phones. However, searches of Young’s cell uncovered letters, notes, and a sexually explicit Valentine’s card from Edney, confirming illicit contact.
Detective Sergeant Will Martel of the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit said: “Edney went to significant lengths to conceal the relationship, knowing that it was a serious breach of her position. Corruption will not be tolerated within our prisons.”
Edney pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office at Exeter Crown Court. Her defence cited personal struggles including a traumatic childhood and a previous abusive marriage.
Judge James Patrick sentenced her to six months imprisonment, stressing her awareness of professional boundaries.
Judge James Patrick said: “There is no evidence of a physical relationship, but your connection was highly sexual. Despite warnings, you continued contact through subterfuge, including false identities and disguised numbers.”
The judge added that an immediate custodial sentence was essential to uphold the integrity of the prison service.
Originally published by UKNIP.
