A former prison officer has pleaded guilty to misconduct in a public office after admitting to an “inappropriate” relationship with an inmate while working at HMP Risley in Warrington. Zoe Oldham, aged 29, appeared before Liverpool Crown Court on December 18, 2023, where she confirmed her identity before entering her plea.
Oldham engaged in the misconduct between March 1, 2023, and December 19, 2023. The court heard that evidence in the case includes over 1,100 messages exchanged between her and the inmate. Her legal counsel, Damian Nolan, stated, “She admits the essential nature of the offence with which she is charged.” He also indicated that there are complexities in the evidence presented, which the court must consider.
Upcoming Sentencing and Context of the Case
Oldham, who resides on Marlborough Road in Accrington, Lancashire, will be sentenced on January 9, 2024. Until then, she has been released on unconditional bail. The court has scheduled a mention hearing for December 16, with the Honorary Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Andrew Menary KC, ordering a pre-sentence report by the Probation Service. Judge Menary warned Oldham that the seriousness of the case could lead to a custodial sentence, stating, “You should prepare for the possibility of a custodial sentence.”
In a related matter, another individual, Lewis Smith, was also expected to appear in court but his case was delayed due to technical issues with establishing a video link to HMP Hindley. Smith, aged 32 and from Abbey Hey Lane in Gorton, Manchester, faces multiple charges including possession of a mobile phone, possession of a prohibited item, and possession of a class C drug, specifically anabolic steroids, while incarcerated at HMP Wymott in Lancashire. His plea and trial preparation hearing is set for December 15.
The instances of misconduct by prison staff raise significant concerns regarding the integrity and security within correctional facilities. As the legal proceedings unfold, both cases will be closely monitored as they highlight the challenges faced in maintaining professional boundaries in such environments.
