A prison officer’s covert relationship with an inmate who was a sex offender came to light due to unauthorized communication, including a risqué Valentine’s Day card discovered in the inmate’s cell.
Livvy Edney, aged 44, professed love for incarcerated Paul Young while serving as his supervising officer at HMP Channings Wood, according to court proceedings. They maintained contact through monitored three-way phone calls involving Young’s mother, an approved contact, with Edney using the alias ‘Jules’.
Upon exposure, a Valentine’s Day card featuring two penguins was found in Young’s cell, containing a highly explicit message. Additionally, Young had shared poems with Edney, discussed romantic getaways to Venice, and requested photos of her breasts, as reported by Devon Live.
Staff grew suspicious of their relationship before Young, serving a Public Protection sentence for a severe sexual offense, was relocated to HMP The Verne. Edney appeared overly concerned about Young and offered to tidy his cell, as shared by prosecutor Tom Bradnock.
Despite the transfer, the duo continued breaching regulations. Phone recordings captured them expressing affection, making post-release plans, and discussing a potential trip to Venice. They also spoke of sharing clothing to keep each other’s scent, along with mentions of sexual activities and coordinated masturbation sessions.
The calls, lasting 30 minutes each, clearly demonstrated an inappropriate bond between them, stated the prosecutor.
“The transcripts cannot confirm a physical relationship,” clarified Bradnock. “However, it was evidently considered.”
Their final call occurred on February 11, 2023. Just a month later, Edney was arrested. Examination of her phone revealed searches related to Young and IPP sentences, while the Valentine’s Day card was found in Young’s cell.
Edney, residing in Grenville Avenue, Torquay, initially denied any wrongdoing. Her troubled upbringing, ADHD, recent return to work post-sickness, and limited experience were highlighted in court. She acknowledged her actions violated prison protocols.
The court learned that Young had previously engaged in a relationship with another prison officer, which intrigued Edney. She refuted any sexual involvement. Judge James Patrick remarked, “While there is no proof of a physical affair, your relationship was clearly sexually charged even if not consummated.”
Edney pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office and received a six-month sentence at Exeter Crown Court. The judge emphasized the risks such offenses pose to public trust in the system.
Detective Sergeant Will Martel of the SWROCU stated, “Edney took significant measures to conceal the relationship, fully aware of its serious breach of trust. Corruption within our prisons will not be condoned. Collaborating closely with HMPPS, prison staff, and law enforcement partners, we are committed to eradicating such misconduct.”
