A prison watchdog leader was found to have inappropriate relationships with three inmates and possessed cushions at her residence featuring the image of a convicted murderer. Helen Spree, aged 63, was involved in smuggling drugs and mobile phones into HMP Liverpool while serving as the chair of the prison’s Independent Monitoring Board (IMB).

Referring to herself as the “prison version of Deliveroo,” Spree carried out these actions over a 20-month period until her arrest in August 2021. Prior to her involvement with the IMB, Spree had a successful career as a sales director for a global company before transitioning to volunteer work within the prison system.

As the chairwoman of HMP Liverpool’s IMB, Spree had unrestricted access throughout the prison and was provided with her own set of keys. She engaged in sexually explicit conversations with three inmates, including Dylan Westall and Thomas Porterfield, exchanging sexual content with them. Westall, who was convicted for the killing of James Meadows, was featured on pillow cushion covers found at Spree’s residence.

Additionally, messages seized from Spree’s phone revealed requests for cannabis and contraband from the prisoners, leading to comparisons of her actions to a prison delivery service. Spree admitted guilt to charges of misconduct in a public office, conspiracy to supply cannabis, and conspiracy to convey prohibited items into the prison.

During the trial, Spree’s defense attorney, Arthur Gibson, mentioned that her misconduct stemmed from personal trauma and low self-esteem rather than financial motives. Gibson stated that Spree’s actions were driven by a vulnerable emotional state and a desire for validation, rather than criminal intent. The sentencing for Spree and her co-defendants, including the Westall brothers, is scheduled for Tuesday.