A prison guard at HMP Wandsworth has been sentenced to 15 months in prison for misconduct in public office. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, pleaded guilty to having sex with an inmate in a cell on June 27th.
The incident, captured in a video that went viral, saw Abreu engaging in sexual acts with the prisoner. The video, lasting five minutes, reportedly depicted Abreu as an active participant.
Abreu's arrest followed the video's dissemination. She was apprehended at Heathrow Airport as she attempted to leave the country. Prior to her arrest, she had contacted the prison to inform them of her travel plans, and indicated she would not return to work, and that her equipment would be returned by her husband.
The misconduct involved a clear breach of trust, according to prosecutors. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) highlighted that Abreu's actions were willful and demonstrated a disregard for her position as a prison officer. The CPS also stated that no excuse can be offered for this behavior, and that such misconduct will be pursued vigorously.
Abreu was sentenced at Isleworth Crown Court after admitting her guilt in July of last year. The court found her guilty of misconduct in public office, a serious violation of public trust.
