Kelly Duffey, a 36-year-old prison tutor from Amesbury, Wiltshire, has admitted to having an inappropriate intimate relationship with a prisoner, Ashley Goodridge, at HMP Erlestoke. She pleaded guilty to two counts of misconduct in a public office during a hearing at Winchester Crown Court. The relationship reportedly involved kissing and a physical sexual encounter, which took place between July and September 2024.

The court hearing revealed that Goodridge, who is 38 years old, also admitted to an offence related to the use of a mobile phone from inside the prison. Recorder Gemma White highlighted the gravity of Duffey's actions and warned her that a custodial sentence was a possibility as they prepared for sentencing scheduled for April 16. Her actions have raised serious concerns about the conduct and monitoring of staff within the prison system.

This case underscores the issues of professional boundaries and the potential for abuse of power in correctional facilities. It reflects ongoing discussions about accountability among prison staff and the inherent risks when such boundaries are crossed. The outcome of the sentencing will be keenly observed, as it could set a precedent for future cases involving misconduct by prison staff.