A former prison officer from Devon appeared at Exeter Crown Court yesterday (5 May) and was sentenced to 14 months in prison after pleading guilty to misconduct in public office and being concerned in the supply of class C drugs.
Officers from the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) evidenced that whilst working at HMP Exeter, Monika Richards, 46, from Okehampton, failed to inform the prison that a serving prisoner was in possession of an illicit mobile phone and that she had been communicating with him on the device.
During a search of the inmate’s cell, two small mobile phones were found hidden. Call records for one of the phones showed two-way contact with Richards.
On examination of Richards’ devices, SWROCU officers found that as well as contacting the prisoner, she was also supplying a class C drug, namely diazepam, to associates.
SWROCU Corruption Investigator PC Mark Paterson said: “Richards would have been fully aware of her duty to inform supervisors that a serving prisoner was in possession of a mobile phone and that she had been having phone contact with him.
“Illicit mobile phones in the hands of criminals allows them the opportunity to continue their criminality both inside the prison and in the community. Prison staff neglecting their duty by failing to report the existence of such phones can potentially lead to further serious crimes being committed and leave themselves open to manipulation and blackmail by prisoners.
“Richards further offended by supplying controlled drugs outside of the prison estate. Her actions fell far below what would be expected of a public servant in a position of trust.”

Plan for thousands of homes suffers delay to tackle vital gaps
Devon churches in limbo as government cuts funds
Arts and Culture East Devon announces recipients of Creative East Devon Fund
Audio ballot papers available to assist visually impaired voters in Exeter
Chief Medical Officer, Sir Chris Whitty, explores the health challenges in rural Devon
Taxi driver warned after third speeding ticket
Man charged in connection with Newton Abbot assault
Angry church leaders appeal after city council snub
Police appeal for witnesses following a tragic late night collision
Appeal following serious assault, Newton Abbot
Quarter of a million people in Devon treated for minor illnesses in local pharmacies
Valuable tips for parenting children through difficult topics are now available online
New observation wheel offers far-reaching views across Teignmouth
Van driver throws carrots at Dartmoor ponies
Vapes leading to likely rise in refuse fires
Devon man jailed for rape and sexual abuse of a woman
