A UK prison governor once hailed as a “rising star” within the prison service is now facing a likely prison sentence herself after being convicted of serious misconduct.
Kerri Pegg, 42, was found guilty of two counts of misconduct in public office and one count of possessing criminal property, following revelations of a secret romantic relationship with a notorious inmate, Anthony Saunderson — a convicted drug trafficker serving a 35-year sentence.
During their illicit relationship, Saunderson — known among criminal associates by the aliases “Jesse Pinkman” and “James Gandolfini” — gifted Pegg a £12,000 Mercedes, which was reportedly purchased using drug money. Despite Pegg’s claims that their contact was strictly professional and related to a rehabilitation initiative he founded, the jury did not accept her version of events.
The verdict was delivered at Preston Crown Court after a three-week trial. The jury reached a decision in just under three hours.
High-Risk Relationship with Dangerous Consequences
Pegg began her prison service career in 2012 as a graduate entrant and rose quickly through the ranks, becoming governor of HMP Kirkham in 2018.
However, almost from the beginning of her tenure, colleagues raised red flags over her unusually close relationship with Saunderson — a man previously involved in importing £19 million worth of cocaine from Argentina.
Despite his criminal background, Saunderson was allowed to spend extensive time behind closed doors in Pegg’s office. He also successfully secured temporary release privileges, personally approved by Pegg, bypassing proper procedures.
According to the prosecution, the nature of their relationship became a source of tension even within Saunderson’s gang. Associates reportedly complained he was spending more time with Pegg than on his criminal operations or with his wife.
Financial Vulnerabilities and Evidence of Misconduct
When police searched Pegg’s home in Orrell, Wigan, they discovered personal items—including a toothbrush and flip-flops—containing Saunderson’s DNA.
Investigators also uncovered financial records revealing numerous unpaid debts, including several county court judgments, four maxed-out credit cards, and a bank balance of just 6p.
These financial liabilities were deemed a security risk and contributed to the misconduct charges.
The court heard that such financial pressures make prison staff more susceptible to corruption, which weighed heavily in the case against Pegg.
Sentencing to Follow
Judge Graham Knowles KC said a custodial sentence was “inevitable”, though sentencing was deferred later. Pegg was granted bail but remains within the court building until further arrangements are confirmed.
M10News will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available.
