Ex-Guard Smuggled Phone, Had Sex with Inmate, and Attempted DIY Insemination
A former prison officer has been sentenced after engaging in a six-month affair with a convicted rapist, during which she smuggled contraband into jail, had sexual contact with him on duty, and even attempted to artificially inseminate herself with his sperm.
Cherri-Ann Austin-Saddington, 33, from Weymouth, worked at HMP The Verne, a now-closed immigration removal centre in Dorset, when she began an illicit relationship with inmate Bradley Trengrove, 32. Trengrove, originally from Camborne, Cornwall, was serving a 13-year sentence for rape and sexual activity with a child.
Smuggling, Sex, and a Bizarre Insemination Attempt
The disturbing relationship came to light after prison authorities uncovered evidence of Austin-Saddington’s misconduct. Investigations revealed that she:
- Smuggled a mobile phone into the prison for Trengrove.
- Engaged in sexual contact with him while on duty.
- During a visit, she concealed a Calpol syringe in her bra to collect his semen, which was handed to her wrapped in cling film. She later admitted attempting to use it for self-insemination.
- Continued visiting Trengrove under a fake name after he was transferred to HMP Channings Wood in Devon.
- Saved his number in her phone under the contact name “husband to be.”
Previous Warnings Ignored
Shockingly, Austin-Saddington had been reported for suspicious behaviour as early as 2020, including allegations of inappropriate relationships with other inmates. Despite these red flags, she remained in her role until her eventual arrest.
Sentencing: A Suspended Jail Term
At Exeter Crown Court, Austin-Saddington pleaded guilty to:
- Misconduct in a public office
- Conveying a prohibited item (a mobile phone) into prison
She was handed a two-year prison sentence, but due to an undisclosed health condition, it was suspended for two years.
Meanwhile, Trengrove, already serving 13 years, was given an additional two years and three months for his role in the illicit relationship.
Questions Over Prison Security
The case has raised serious concerns about staff vetting and security protocols in UK prisons. A spokesperson for the Prison Service stated that such behaviour is “completely unacceptable” and that disciplinary action was taken as soon as the offences were discovered.
Austin-Saddington’s actions not only breached professional conduct but also exploited her position of authority, undermining the integrity of the prison system. The case serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by staff corruption within secure facilities.
This scandal highlights the dangers of inappropriate relationships between prison staff and inmates, particularly when involving dangerous offenders. While Austin-Saddington avoided immediate jail time, her career is in ruins, and Trengrove faces even longer behind bars. The incident has prompted calls for tighter monitoring of prison staff to prevent similar breaches in the future.
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