A prison tutor has pleaded guilty to misconduct in a public office after admitting to an inappropriate relationship with an inmate, which began when they were discovered together in a locked classroom.
Discovery of the Locked Classroom Incident
The situation came to light at HMP Chelmsford when another member of staff attempted to enter a classroom. They found the door had been locked from the inside. Inside were tutor Melissa Murphy and the prisoner. Murphy, who was required to keep her keys attached to her person at all times for security, had removed them.
According to Essex Police, this breach of protocol was a serious security risk, as it could have allowed a prisoner to access keys and potentially attempt an escape.
Letters and a Photograph Reveal the Relationship
Murphy, 48, who had worked at the prison for four years, first met the inmate in the summer of 2023. She claimed to have received the first letter from him in November that year. Instead of reporting this unsanctioned contact as required, she replied.
This sparked an exchange of several letters which, police stated, clearly suggested a relationship had developed. Following her arrest in December 2023, these letters were discovered during a search of her home in Chelmsford. Officers also found a photograph of the inmate in her bedroom.
Guilty Plea and Consequences
Melissa Murphy, formerly known as Melissa O'Brien, was charged via postal requisition on 12 February 2025. She subsequently pleaded guilty to one count of misconduct in a public office at Chelmsford Crown Court on 28 November.
Her role at the prison, where she worked as a teacher preparing inmates for employment after release, was terminated immediately following the discovery of the relationship.
Detective Constable Becky Sparrow, the officer in the case, condemned Murphy's actions. 'Murphy abused a position of trust by forming this inappropriate relationship,' she said. 'By definition, anyone held in prison is in a vulnerable position. It is crucial staff and prison officers do not put those they are required to help in positions such as this.'
DC Sparrow added that Murphy had compromised the integrity required of justice system workers, exploited a vulnerable man, and left herself open to exploitation. The court will pass sentence at a later date.
