A prison officer is facing potential jail time after admitting to having an inappropriate relationship with an inmate at HMP Highpoint in Stradishall, Suffolk. Rebecca Pinckard, aged 46, pleaded guilty to charges of misconduct after allegedly performing a sex act on the prisoner between April and July 2024.
The misconduct charge, presented at Cambridge Crown Court, states that Pinckard “wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification misconducted herself,” amounting to an “abuse of the public’s trust.” The court heard that she engaged in a relationship with a prisoner she was responsible for, sent him a card, and performed oral sex on him while on duty.
Pinckard is scheduled for sentencing in January 2025, following her guilty plea on November 19, 2024. During a previous hearing, her solicitor, Andrew Cookson, noted that there were “factual disputes” regarding the case, though he did not provide further details.
Details of the Allegations
The case involves an inmate named Erion Nakdi, aged 42, who has been charged with possessing a mobile phone while incarcerated at HMP Highpoint. Nakdi appeared via video link from HMP Ford in West Sussex, where he is currently being held, and also pleaded guilty to the possession charge. It remains unclear whether he is the same inmate involved in the relationship with Pinckard.
The Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU) became aware of the allegations on July 8, 2024. This unit, which comprises personnel from seven police forces in the East of England, described the relationship as “inappropriate.”
Detective Inspector Puneet Netar from ERSOU’s regional organised crime unit stated, “Rebecca Pinckard clearly abused her position as a prison officer and made a conscious decision to enter into a relationship with an inmate. Public trust in the justice system depends on integrity, and our team works closely with the Prison Service to ensure that, where misconduct or corruption is occurring, those responsible are fully investigated.”
Context of Misconduct in Prisons
Pinckard’s case is part of a troubling trend involving prison officers engaging in sexual relationships with inmates. Just recently, another officer, Alicia Novas, aged 19, admitted to having sex with a violent robber while also smuggling cannabis into the prison for him. Novas had a four-month relationship with Declan Winkless, 30, who was serving an 11-year sentence for aggravated burglary.
In addition, Isabelle Dale, aged 23, was found guilty last month of engaging in a sexual encounter with an inmate in a prison prayer room, while also having a relationship with another prisoner. Such cases raise significant concerns about security and the integrity of prison staff, highlighting the need for rigorous oversight within correctional facilities.
As Pinckard awaits her sentencing, her actions remind the public of the challenges faced in maintaining trust within the justice system and the importance of accountability for those in positions of authority.
