A prison tutor has been convicted of misconduct after her illicit relationship with a male inmate was uncovered, following the discovery of a photograph of him in her bedroom and a cache of letters.
Locked Door and Hidden Letters Reveal Affair
The inappropriate relationship between Melissa Murphy, a 48-year-old tutor, and a prisoner at HMP Chelmsford first came to light when a colleague tried to enter a classroom. The staff member found the door locked from the inside, with Murphy and the inmate alone inside. Essex Police stated that Murphy had also removed her keys from her person, a serious breach of protocol as prison employees must keep their keys attached at all times to prevent security risks.
This incident triggered an investigation, leading to Murphy's arrest on December 11, 2023. A search of her home in Chelmsford revealed multiple letters exchanged with the prisoner and, critically, a photograph of the inmate was discovered in her bedroom.
Abuse of Trust and Vulnerable Position
Murphy, who had worked at the prison for four years, first met the inmate in the summer of 2023. She claimed the prisoner sent her the first letter in November that year. Instead of reporting this prohibited contact, Murphy replied, and the correspondence continued, indicating the development of a relationship.
She was subsequently dismissed from her role, which involved teaching inmates to prepare them for employment after release. Murphy was charged via postal requisition on February 12, 2025, and pleaded guilty to one count of misconduct in a public office at Chelmsford Crown Court on November 28.
Police Condemn 'Exploitation of Vulnerable Man'
Detective Constable Becky Sparrow of Essex Police, who led the investigation, condemned Murphy's actions. "Murphy abused a position of trust by forming this inappropriate relationship," DC Sparrow 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 – she potentially put both of them at risk of harm."
DC Sparrow emphasised the wider implications for the criminal justice system, adding: "The integrity of everyone working within the system is required to keep prisoners and the public safe. By entering into this relationship, Murphy compromised that integrity, exploited a vulnerable man and left herself open to exploitation too."
The police worked closely with the prison's security department to build a strong case, which left Murphy with no option but to plead guilty. The court will pass sentence at a later date.
