Preston probation officer relationship uncovered leads to sentence

A Preston probation officer was found to have a relationship with an inmate and was sentenced for misconduct.

Preston probation officer sentenced for relationship with inmate

Leonie Wilkinson, 27, worked as a probation officer at HMP Preston. She did not disclose conflicts of interest when applying for the role or during vetting, the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit said. The relationship with prisoner Gary Hampson began in 2018 and was uncovered after a mobile phone found in Hampson’s cell showed calls, emails and messages between them. Wilkinson pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office and was sentenced at Preston Crown Court to 12 months in prison, suspended for 18 months. The case has been described by the NWROCU as a significant risk to prison security. The incident raises questions about how staff are vetted and how potential conflicts are detected. It also highlights how digital evidence can reveal misconduct that checks might miss and the need for stronger monitoring of staff who work with inmates.

This incident exposes gaps between policy and practice in probation services. Relying on trust alone is not enough; clear lines between personal life and professional duties must be reinforced through regular training and monitoring.

Suspended sentences can be seen as a balance of accountability and chance for reform, but many will want to see tougher penalties for breaches that jeopardize public safety. The case may prompt reviews of vetting, reporting rules, and how officials are supervised in high risk roles.

Highlights

Policy makers will watch how this case shapes safeguards for staff and inmates.