Kerri Pegg, a 42-year-old prison governor from Up Holland in Lancashire, was recently arrested by police for engaging in a romantic relationship with a notorious drug boss, Anthony Saunderson. Despite lacking the authority to do so, Pegg released Saunderson early from HMP Kirkham in Lancashire, where she worked as a governor. Pegg, who was once hailed as a ‘rising star’ in the Prison Service, faced charges of misconduct in public office and possession of criminal property at Preston Crown Court on April 9.
Bodycam footage captured the moment of Pegg’s arrest at her home in Ogwell, Wigan, where officers approached her and informed her of the complaints against her. The petite, blonde, and bubbly Pegg was a governor-grade prison officer at HMP Kirkham in 2018 when her relationship with Saunderson began to unfold. The court heard how Pegg did not adhere to the rules and started a romance with the crime boss, ultimately aiding in his early release in mid-2019. Evidence, including a toothbrush and size 10 Hugo Boss flip flops with Saunderson’s DNA, was found at Pegg’s home during a police raid.
Saunderson, who was using an encrypted communication system called Encrochat to converse with criminal associates, referred to Pegg in his messages. The court learned that he even purchased a £12,000 Mercedes C class car for Pegg, paid for with 34 kilos of amphetamines. Pegg’s lavish lifestyle, including expensive jewelry and clothing, raised suspicions as she was living beyond her means. Despite earning £3,000 a month, Pegg faced serious debt with County Court Judgements against her. Prosecutors highlighted Pegg’s vulnerability to exploitation due to her financial troubles, emphasizing her lack of integrity and professionalism in her role as a prison governor.
As the trial unfolded, it was revealed that Pegg spent a significant amount of time with Saunderson in her office, leading to his application for temporary release. Even members of Saunderson’s gang expressed concerns about the amount of time he spent with Pegg. Pegg failed to disclose her relationship with Saunderson or her financial struggles to her employer, breaching the rules of her employment. Despite being warned and challenged, Pegg continued to cross boundaries, ultimately leading to her dismissal from the Prison Service.
Pegg’s actions were deemed a betrayal of public trust and the Prison Service, with the judge condemning her for disregarding the clear boundaries of her role. Saunderson, now serving a 35-year sentence for drug and firearms offenses, played a significant role in Pegg’s downfall. The evidence presented in court by the Crown Prosecution Service showcased the extent of Pegg’s misconduct, highlighting the damaging impact on public confidence in prison staff. Pegg’s virtues of compassion and dedication were overshadowed by her lack of integrity and professionalism, ultimately resulting in her conviction and sentencing.
