Holme House prison worker had 'inappropriate relationship'

Kelsey Calvert sobbed uncontrollably throughout the short hearing when the allegations were put to her and she pleaded guilty to both charges.

The 28-year-old admitted to beginning a relationship with the male inmate while working at HMP Holme House, a category C men's prison in Stockton.

(Image: Picture: PA IMAGES)

The affair, and smuggling of medication, date back to November 2022, Teesside Crown Court heard.

The first offence she admitted read: "On and before November 22, 2022, at Cleveland while acting as a public officer, namely prison staff, wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification misconducted yourself in a way which amounted to an abuse of the public's trust in the office holder by having an inappropriate relationship with an inmate."

(Image: Picture: PA IMAGES)

Her second count reads: "Prior to November 22, 2022 at Cleveland without authorisation brought, threw or otherwise conveyed a substance, namely Codeine which was specified by section 40A(2) of the Prison Act 1952, into or out of his majesty's prison situated at Holme House, Stockton."

Holme House Prison in Stockton

Judge Richard Bennett adjourned the case until October 4 to allow time for the preparation of a pre-sentence report.

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He said: “You have pleaded guilty to these two matters, having already indicated that it was your intention at the lower court, so you will be entitled to full credit for these offences.

“I’m adjourning your case for the preparation of a pre-sentence report. However, I must say this, the fact I’m adjourning the case for a pre-sentence report, the fact I am granting you unconditional bail, should not be taken by you as any indication of a likely sentence.

“The likely sentence in this case is a prison sentence.”

Calvert, of Shawdon Close, Ryhope, Sunderland, was released on unconditional bail.