A former senior official at a prison watchdog has been sentenced to five years in jail after admitting to a series of corruption offences at HMP Liverpool. Helen Spree, 63, who chaired the independent monitoring board (IMB) for the prison, engaged in illicit communication and drug smuggling over a period of 20 months.
During her tenure, Spree was found to have sent sexual messages to inmates, including convicted killer Dylan Westall, 35. Reports suggest she became 'besotted' with him. She also reportedly referred to herself as 'the prisoners’ Deliveroo', indicating her role in facilitating contraband within the prison walls.
The Independent Monitoring Board is a crucial oversight body, tasked with ensuring that prisoners are treated fairly and humanely, and that standards are upheld within the prison system. Spree's actions represent a significant breach of trust and a serious compromise of the integrity of this independent oversight.
The prosecution detailed how Spree's activities undermined the security and discipline of HMP Liverpool, a Category B men's prison. Her role as head of the IMB placed her in a position of considerable responsibility, making her corruption particularly egregious.
This case highlights the vulnerabilities within prison oversight mechanisms and the potential for individuals in positions of trust to exploit their access. The sentencing aims to send a clear message about the severe consequences for those who abuse their authority within the justice system.