‘SERIOUS’ |
“You should prepare for the possibility of a custodial sentence”
Zoe Oldham
A female prison officer has been told to “prepare for the possibility of a custodial sentence” after confessing to having an “inappropriate” relationship with an inmate.
Zoe Oldham was brought before Liverpool Crown Court on Monday, after being charged with misconduct in a public office in relation to her role at HMP Risley in Warrington.
The court was told how she had participated in an “inappropriate relationship” with an inmate between March 1, 2023 and December 19, 2023, while working as a prison guard.
Zoe Oldham
News in 90 Seconds – Wednesday November 19
Damian Nolan, said his client admitted to the charges lodged against her.
“This lady has young children. Perhaps for obvious reasons, I would ask the court to consider sentencing her in the New Year,” he said, according to the Liverpool Echo.
Her co-defendant Lewis Smith was also scheduled to appear via video link., however his case was postponed due to technical issues.
The 32-year-old, of Abbey Hey Lane in Gorton, Manchester, has been charged with possession of a mobile phone in a prison, possession of an unspecified prohibited item in a prison and possession of a class C drug in a prison.
This latter count relates to anabolic steroids which he was alleged to have possessed while behind bars at HMP Wymott in Lancashire.
He will now face a plea and trial preparation hearing on December 15
Meanwhile, Oldham of Lancashire, who is set to be sentenced on January 9, will remain on unconditional bail ahead of a hearing on December 16.
Andrew Menary KC told the mother he would adjourn the case for sentencing.
“Sentencing will take place on the 9th of January,” he said, according to the Liverpool Echo. “The fact that a report is being ordered must not be taken as any indication. These matters are serious.
“You should prepare for the possibility of a custodial sentence. The court will consider all matters which are relevant for sentence.”