(CTN News) – A woman was detained following the release of a social media video allegedly showing a jail officer having sex with an inmate in a cell.
The Metropolitan Police said it began investigating on Friday after being made “aware of a video allegedly filmed inside HMP Wandsworth,” adding that a woman was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office the same day and is still in jail.
It is unclear when the tape, which initially depicted an officer in full dress, was shot.
The arrest comes less than two months after the prisons watchdog notified the justice secretary, Alex Chalk, of an urgent need for improvements at the institution.
Charlie Taylor, the chief inspector of prisons, stated that the results of a recent inspection were “deeply concerning,” with “chaotic” wings and staff unable to “accurately account for their prisoners during the working day.” The prison’s governor, Katie Price, resigned during the inspection.
A Scotland Yard spokesperson said: “A police investigation was launched on June 28 after officers were made aware of a video allegedly filmed inside HMP Wandsworth.”
“On June 28, a woman was arrested on allegations of wrongdoing in public office. She has been brought into police custody.
“Investigations continue. We maintain regular contact with the Ministry of Justice.”
A representative for the Prison Service stated: “Staff corruption is not tolerated, and the former prison officer allegedly featured in this video has been reported to the police.”
“It would be inappropriate to comment further while they investigate.”
Taylor wrote to Chalk in May, warning of the “despondency” he saw at the category B Victorian jail.
He went further: “For this troubled prison to begin to recover, Wandsworth needs permanent experienced leaders at all levels who are invested in its long-term future to improve security, safety and guide their less-experienced colleagues.”
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