Livvy Edney, 44, a prison officer at HMP Channings Wood in Devon, has been jailed for six months following revelations that she secretly formed a relationship with inmate Paul Young. Young is 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 maintained covert contact with Young using two pay-as-you-go mobile phones registered under false names and a relative’s address. Recorded calls captured declarations of love, poetry readings, and plans for a holiday to Venice after Young’s release.
Edney was arrested at her home in Torquay in March 2023. During police interviews, she denied the relationship and any 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 stated: “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.”
At Exeter Crown Court, Edney pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office. Her defence highlighted personal struggles, including a traumatic childhood and a previous abusive marriage.
Judge James Patrick sentenced Edney to six months imprisonment, emphasising her awareness of professional boundaries. He 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 necessary to uphold the integrity of the prison service.
Originally published by UKNIP.
