Mental Health Worker sentenced following NWROCU prison corruption investigation

A mental health counsellor working within HMP Lancaster Farms has been sentenced today (Friday 31 October) at Bolton Crown Court following an investigation led by the North West Regional Prison Anti-Corruption Unit.

Carrie Yih, 47, of Rawcliffe Avenue, Bolton was jailed for 10 months after pleading guilty to the following offences:

1. Misconduct in a Public Office

2. Concerned in the Supply of Class C Controlled Drugs – Anabolic Steroids

3. Concerned in the Supply of Class C Controlled Drugs – Pregabalin Tablets

The offences relate to Yih's conduct while working as a mental health counsellor at HMP Lancaster Farms, where she formed an inappropriate relationship with a prisoner. Despite receiving counter-corruption training, Yih engaged in sexually explicit communications with the prisoner, both during and after his time in custody, and facilitated the supply of controlled drugs at his request.

On 1 March 2023, NWROCU officers executed a search warrant at Yih’s home address. She was arrested and found in possession of:

• A bottle of suspected anabolic steroids

• A blister pack of pregabalin tablets

• Syringes and needles

• Personal items belonging to the prisoner, including bank cards

• A leisure resort booking form linked to a suspected weekend away with the prisoner

Yih attempted to discard a carrier bag containing the prisoner's belongings into a neighbour’s garden as officers arrived.

Detective Inspector Brian Morley said:

"Today’s sentencing reflects the seriousness of breaching professional boundaries and facilitating criminal activity within a custodial setting.

"Here at the NWROCU, we remain committed to identifying and disrupting corruption within the prison estate and safeguarding the integrity of public service roles."