A young UK prison officer is accused of engaging in sexual relationships with two inmates at the same time while conspiring to smuggle drugs into a high-security jail in Kent, a court has heard.
Isabelle Dale, 23, allegedly formed inappropriate relationships with Shahid Sharif, 33, and Connor Money, 28, while working at HMP Swaleside on the Isle of Sheppey between September 2021 and December 2022.
Dale, of Portsmouth, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court charged with two counts of misconduct in a public office.
The charges state that she “wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification” abused her position by entering into intimate relationships with serving prisoners, in breach of public trust.
She also faces a further charge of conspiracy to bring controlled drugs into prison.
It is alleged that Dale conspired with Sharif, Lilea Sallis, 27, and others unknown to smuggle illicit substances into the jail.
During the hearing, District Judge Adrian Turner confirmed the seriousness of the allegations, stating: “These matters must go to the Crown Court. If the case goes to trial, you have got to attend trial.”
Dale was granted bail and is due to appear at Inner London Crown Court on May 23 for a plea and trial preparation hearing.
Sharif, who appeared separately via video link from HMP Manchester, is also charged with possessing a mobile phone while incarcerated at HMP Brixton and HMP Wandsworth during the same timeframe.
Sallis, of Brighton, is also facing charges linked to the alleged drugs conspiracy.
All three are expected to return to court for the next stage of proceedings on May 23.
