A sophisticated criminal network involved in smuggling contraband into HMP Lindholme, near Doncaster, has been dismantled following a meticulous investigation spanning over five years. The operation, which involved a prison guard, inmates, their partners, and outside associates, saw a significant quantity of drugs, mobile phones, and other prohibited items smuggled into the prison between August 2018 and July 2019. The investigation involved extensive phone analysis, forensic examinations, and financial inquiries to unravel the complex web of illicit activities.
The network’s unraveling began with the arrest of prison guard Victoria Sked, 26, who was caught attempting to smuggle cannabis concealed within a Pot Noodle into the prison. A subsequent search of Sked revealed a larger cache of contraband, including MDMA, psychoactive substances, more cannabis, steroids, mobile phones, a SIM card, and a substantial amount of cash. Pictures found on her phone of mobile phones, chargers, and Kinder Egg holders – commonly used to conceal contraband – further implicated her in the smuggling operation and triggered a wider investigation.
The investigation revealed a network of individuals working in concert to facilitate the smuggling operation. Ayesha Martin, whose boyfriend Simie McGinley was an inmate at HMP Lindholme, was identified as a key player. CCTV footage captured Martin visiting Sked’s address on multiple occasions, dropping off packages believed to contain contraband. Further analysis of phones found within the prison implicated inmates Robert Williams and Gareth Roberts in the internal distribution of the smuggled goods.
The investigation also uncovered the involvement of several other individuals connected to the inmates. Diane Monks, partner of inmate Gareth Roberts, was caught attempting to smuggle spice into the prison during a visit. Another inmate, Jack McGlen, and his partner, Alicia Harrison, were implicated in drug dealing and money laundering respectively. The network extended beyond these core members, encompassing three other individuals who played various roles in the operation.
The culmination of the investigation resulted in the sentencing of ten individuals involved in the smuggling ring. Victoria Sked received a sentence of three years and eleven months for her role in smuggling drugs, mobile phones, and SIM cards, as well as money laundering. Ayesha Martin received a similar sentence of three and a half years for her involvement in smuggling and money laundering. Gareth Roberts and Robert Williams, both inmates, received sentences of three and a half years and one year and ten months respectively for their involvement in drug smuggling and possession of prohibited articles.
Simie McGinley, another inmate, received a sentence of one and a half years for drug smuggling, money laundering, and possession of prohibited articles. Jack McGlen received a four-year sentence for drug smuggling, money laundering, and possession of a prohibited article. His partner, Alicia Harrison, received a suspended sentence of 21 months for her involvement in drug smuggling and money laundering. Darren Morgan, an associate of the network, received a sentence of four years and ten months for drug smuggling, money laundering, and possession of diamorphine and cocaine with intent to supply.
Adam Kirk, another associate, received a sentence of two years and four months for drug smuggling and various driving offences. Abigail Carter, whose sister was an inmate at the prison, received a suspended sentence of 16 months for drug smuggling and money laundering. Diane Monks, who pleaded guilty to smuggling cannabis and spice, awaits sentencing. Another defendant, Lydia Ratcliffe, received a conditional discharge for transmitting an image from inside the prison. The successful prosecution of these individuals highlights the dedication and persistence of law enforcement in dismantling complex criminal networks operating within and outside prison walls. The investigation serves as a testament to the importance of collaboration between various agencies and the utilization of advanced investigative techniques in tackling organized crime.
