Kerri Pegg, a 42-year-old former prison governor once regarded as a rising star in the Prison Service, has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of misconduct in public office and possession of criminal property. Pegg, who rapidly advanced from a graduate entrant to governor at HMP Kirkham in Lancashire within six years, began a relationship with Anthony Saunderson, a major Liverpool drug gang boss known to associates as “Jesse Pinkman” and “James Gandolfini”.
The relationship came to light during a trial where it was revealed that Pegg had helped Saunderson secure day release from prison and accepted a £12,000 Mercedes C-class car from him, paid for with proceeds from drug trafficking. Police found Saunderson’s DNA on a toothbrush at Pegg’s home, and evidence showed she was living beyond her means, with significant debts and maxed-out credit cards.
The judge delivering the sentence told Pegg she had “betrayed the public trust” and the Prison Service, emphasizing that she was fully aware of the professional boundaries and had received training and warnings about her conduct. Her actions were described as “shocking and unconscionable,” with her undisclosed financial troubles leaving her vulnerable to corruption and blackmail.
Pegg was convicted of two counts of misconduct in public office and one count of possession of criminal property, with all sentences to run concurrently. The case has sparked concern within the prison system, with officials stressing the seriousness of her breach of trust and the importance of upholding professional standards among staff.
Saunderson, who was serving a lengthy sentence for drug and firearms offences, had developed a drug rehabilitation program for inmates while continuing his criminal activities. Pegg claimed her close contact with him was related to his involvement in this program, but the court found otherwise. The case highlights ongoing challenges with corruption and inappropriate relationships within the UK’s prison system.
