Female Prison Guard Who Fell for Convicted Killer Behind Bars Gets Prison Sentence of Her Own

A prison officer formerly worked for the UK government before she was sentenced to jail because she admitted to having an intimate relationship with a convicted murderer during her time working at the prison.

The prison officer Rebecca Green, age 29, of Market Rasen Way, Holbeach, Lincolnshire, worked at HMP Whitemoor in March, Cambridgeshire, and began a relationship with John Otugade, who was sentenced to 25 years in prison for murder in October 2022.

Early in spring 2023, Green was summoned for a meeting regarding complaints about her misconduct. At first, she denied the accusations made against her, but later, Otugade was transferred to HMP Belmarsh during the investigation.

The police conducted a search of Green’s car and discovered her mobile phone, which showed evidence that she was in a romantic relationship with the prisoner. In addition, Otugade added a number to his list of approved contacts in the prison with the name partner, which matched Green’s phone number.

Green pleaded guilty to wilful misconduct in a public office. She was sentenced to one year and four months in prison by Cambridge Crown Court on Wednesday.

Detective Constable Tom Adams, who spearheaded the investigation, said that prison officers need to ensure the safety and security of their colleagues and inmates.

“This was a serious breach of Green’s responsibilities, and she failed to consider the potential impact on the security and safety of the staff and prisoners and how her actions undermined the work of the prison,” Adams said. “This sentence shows how seriously the police and courts take such breaches.”