A 24-year-old female prison officer, Morgan Farr Varney, has been sentenced to ten months in jail for engaging in an inappropriate romantic relationship with an inmate while working at HMP Lindholme in Doncaster, UK. Her illicit affair came to light when CCTV footage captured her and the male prisoner together in a storage cupboard and loitering in prohibited areas.
During the proceedings at Sheffield Crown Court, it was revealed that Farr Varney admitted to falling deeply in love with the inmate and acknowledged that she had “f—-d” her life up due to her actions. The court heard that she began the relationship soon after starting her position in April 2022, despite having undergone anti-corruption training intended to prevent such misconduct.
The investigation into Farr Varney’s behaviour began when surveillance footage and subsequent searches revealed romantic letters exchanged between her and the inmate, along with additional evidence found in her home. Following her arrest in January 2023 for misconduct in public office, Farr Varney resigned from her role at the prison, while the inmate was relocated to another facility. However, their relationship persisted, with more incriminating photographs discovered later.
Detective Constable Scott Jarvis from South Yorkshire Police’s anti-corruption unit emphasised the seriousness with which such cases are treated. He noted that while improper relationships between prison staff and inmates are infrequent, they can severely compromise the integrity of prison operations and the professionalism of dedicated prison officers. He stated that the sentencing should serve as a warning to other staff who might consider engaging in such unlawful conduct, highlighting the commitment to thorough investigations and accountability.