A prison support worker involved in a romantic relationship with a drug dealer has been sentenced to six months in jail for misconduct.
Heidi Bessant, aged 38, engaged in a six-month affair with a prisoner while employed at HMP Leyhill, an open prison in South Gloucestershire, starting in November 2023. The court revealed that Bessant and the inmate frequented restaurants and hotels during his day releases, with Bessant assisting in managing his finances.
The relationship came to an end in June 2024 when the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) initiated an investigation due to suspicions surrounding Bessant’s actions. It was uncovered that she was romantically involved with a prisoner serving time for drug-related offenses.
Evidence presented in court showed that Bessant and the inmate exchanged calls and messages, met at various locations during his day releases, and Bessant even facilitated financial transactions for him using his bank details. Bessant, residing in Chepstow, admitted to misconduct in a public office at Bristol Crown Court and received a six-month prison sentence.
PC Mark Paterson, a corruption investigator with SWROCU, condemned Bessant’s breach of trust, emphasizing the need for employees in such roles to uphold integrity. He assured continued collaboration with prison authorities to address and prosecute any staff engaging in criminal activities.
