Prison worker jailed for relationship with murderer in London

Hayley Jones, a 34-year-old prison worker, has been sentenced to nine months in prison for having an inappropriate relationship with Jordan McSweeney, a convicted murderer. Their interactions were captured on CCTV at HMP Belmarsh in London. McSweeney, 31, is serving a life sentence for the brutal murder of Zara Aleena. He was originally given a minimum term of 38 years, which was later reduced to 33 years on appeal. Between March and April 2023, Jones was seen on camera engaging in affectionate behavior with McSweeney, including kissing and playful interactions. Jones acknowledged that her relationship with McSweeney constituted a misuse of her position as a prison officer. Prosecutors revealed that she pulled him in a trolley and allowed him to pretend to strangle her. In total, the pair displayed inappropriate conduct daily. Concerns about their relationship emerged when another prison employee reported seeing them acting affectionately. CCTV footage showed Jones and McSweeney frequently close together during work hours. Following her arrest, police found a poem from McSweeney to Jones, as well as a letter in which he bragged about their relationship and receiving illegal items from her. During her court appearance, Jones expressed regret for her actions. Her defense argued that McSweeney had a history of aggression, and she was manipulated by him. However, the judge emphasized the seriousness of her actions and the breach of trust involved. Jones will serve no more than half of her sentence in prison before being subject to one year of supervised release. The case has raised serious concerns about relationships between prison staff and inmates, particularly with violent offenders.