A PRISON officer is at the centre of an investigation into allegations she had an improper relationship with an inmate at the North-East’s largest prison, The Northern Echo can reveal.

The unnamed 45-year-old woman has been suspended from her duties at Holme House Prison, in Stockton, while the investigation is carried out.

Police arrested the officer on suspicion of misconduct in a public office and she is now on bail while further inquiries are carried out.

The Ministry of Justice last night confirmed the shock development at the Category B jail, but a spokesman told The Northern Echo: “This is a matter for the police.”

However, The Northern Echo understands that that the officer faces allegations that she smuggled prohibited items – such as a mobile phone – into the prison.

Phones have a high value on the illegal “black market”

operated behind bars.

It is understood that detectives from Cleveland Police have examined documents and mobile phones recovered from the woman’s home.

The Prison Officers Association is offering support to the suspended warder while the investigation is carried out by jail bosses and the police.

Terry Fullerton, from the union, said: “Until such time as something is proved, it would be unfair for me to make a comment on the matter.

“However, obviously the Prison Service cannot afford to have anyone in an office who is not acting professionally.”

Sources have revealed how the woman was under observation by security staff at the 1,200-inmate jail before her arrest four months ago.

It is understood her mobile phone was confiscated.

Investigators are also examining claims that the pair had a physical relationship and the prisoner somehow sent flowers to the officer’s home while he was behind bars.

A Prison Service spokesman said: “A member of staff from HMP Holme House has been suspended pending the outcome of court proceedings.”

It declined to comment on the nature of the investigation.

In a statement, Cleveland Police said: “A 45-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in a public office and has been bailed pending further inquiries.”