A prison officer who engaged in sexual relationships with two inmates while colleagues acted as lookouts has been sentenced to three and a half years in prison. Isabelle Dale, aged 23, was found guilty of serious misconduct and conspiring to smuggle synthetic cannabis, commonly known as Spice, into HMP Coldingley in Surrey.
Details of the Offences
Dale was convicted in November on two counts of misconduct in a public office and one count of conspiracy to convey a prohibited article into prison. The court heard that she had a sexual encounter with inmate Shahid Sharif, a 33-year-old convicted robber, in the multi-faith room at HMP Coldingley on July 19, 2022. Two other inmates were observed acting as lookouts during the four-minute incident.
Evidence and Relationships
Prosecutor Kieran Brand detailed how Dale and Sharif emerged from the room, with Dale adjusting her belt area. The multi-faith room, lacking CCTV coverage, was the site of their illicit activity. Following the encounter, Sharif sent Dale a text message praising their interaction, which was later recovered by investigators.
In addition to Sharif, Dale was involved with Connor Money, a 28-year-old inmate serving a nine-year sentence for causing death by dangerous driving. Police uncovered text messages and other evidence confirming both relationships during searches.
Smuggling Operation
A search of Dale's vehicle revealed equipment used to smuggle Spice into the prison, along with carbon paper intended to shield the drugs from x-ray detection. Love letters and provocative photographs of Dale, some laced with Spice, were found in Sharif's cell, further implicating her in the smuggling conspiracy.
Personal Motivations and Background
Dale claimed she sought emotional solace from the inmates, feeling isolated from colleagues who mocked her extensive tattoos. She testified that Sharif instructed her to purchase a £3,000 promise ring to demonstrate loyalty, and she had his nickname, 'Sneaks', tattooed on her neck. A framed picture of the pair was displayed over her bed.
Despite admitting to frequent phone sex with Sharif, Dale denied any physical relationship and stated she was unaware that possessing a mobile phone in prison was illegal. Her arrest occurred on November 1, 2022, while visiting Sharif at Swaleside prison, where he had been transferred after their relationship was discovered.
Judicial Response
Judge Chris Hehir condemned Dale's actions as "very grave offences" and advised her to prepare for incarceration. The case highlights severe breaches of trust within the prison system, underscoring the risks posed by staff misconduct.
This sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the legal and ethical boundaries that prison officers must uphold, with Dale's case reflecting broader concerns about security and professionalism in correctional facilities.
