Plumber jailed over illicit communications with prisoners at HMP Lewes

A plumber who abused his access to HMP Lewes to engage in unauthorised communications with prisoners has been jailed following a joint investigation by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) and the HMPPS Counter Corruption Unit. 

Ben Humphrey, aged 38, of Verbena Drive, Littlehampton, was sentenced last Thursday (5/11) at Lewes Crown Court for offences linked to unlawful communications with prisoners and assisting the possession and use of illicit mobile phones within the prison. 

At a previous hearing in September, Humphrey pleaded guilty to two counts of transmitting or causing the transmission of an image or sound from inside a prison for simultaneous reception outside, and two counts of encouraging or assisting the commission of an either-way offence. 

The offences related to Humphrey's communications with prisoners in January and February 2021, whereby he encouraged and assisted the possession and use of illicit mobile phones within the prison. 

Humphrey was sentenced to 14 months' imprisonment for the offences. 

At the time of the offending, Humphrey worked as a plumber at HMP Lewes, giving him access to prisoner cells and other secure areas of the prison. 

Evidence gathered during the investigation showed Humphrey used burner mobile phones to communicate directly with inmates and maintained those contacts despite having no legitimate reason to do so in his role as a plumber. The investigation also established that Humphrey received payment in return for his involvement. 

Humphrey was charged in June 2024. 

Officer in the case, DC Rachel Alley, said: "Humphrey abused a position of trust for personal financial gain and used his access to a prison environment to engage in criminal activity. 

"This case highlights the effectiveness of the partnership between SEROCU and HMPPS Counter Corruption Unit. By working together, we were able to identify and investigate corrupt behaviour that had the potential to undermine the safety and security of the prison. 

"Those who work within our prisons are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity. When individuals choose to abuse their position for criminal gain, they can expect to be identified, investigated and brought before the courts. 

"We will continue to work closely with our partners to identify those who exploit positions of trust for their own benefit and ensure they are held accountable for their actions."