Former Prison Officer Jailed for Relationship with Inmate

Alicia Novas, a former prison officer at HMP Five Wells in Wellingborough, has been sentenced to three years in prison after admitting to a sexual relationship with inmate Declan Winkless. Novas, 20, engaged in misconduct by smuggling cannabis and mobile phones into the prison and providing Winkless with sensitive information about other inmates. Winkless, 31, who is already serving a lengthy sentence for aggravated burglary, received an additional three years and four months for his role in the offenses.

Prison officer who had sexual relationship with inmate is jailedHMP Five Wells prison officer's relationship with violent inmate rumbled when he Snapchatted lewd video to his pals

Novas began her employment at HMP Five Wells in July 2024, shortly after turning 18. By November of the same year, she had established a direct line of communication with Winkless, which escalated to a sexual relationship. Prosecutor Matthew Rowcliffe revealed that the pair had nearly 3,000 contacts during the indictment period from August 2024 to March 2025, including messages, calls, and video calls. Novas was found to have brought cannabis and two mobile phones into the prison, and she disclosed the identity of a prisoner informant to Winkless, a serious breach of her duties.

Prison officer who had sexual relationship with inmate is jailed

During the sentencing at Northampton Crown Court, Judge Rebecca Crane emphasized the gravity of Novas's actions, stating that she failed to recognize the potential risks to prison security and the safety of staff and inmates. The judge noted that Novas's age and inexperience made her vulnerable to manipulation by Winkless, who had a history of violent offenses. Winkless was described as having used his life experience to exploit Novas's naivety.

Prison officer who had sexual relationship with inmate is jailed

Detective Inspector Richard Cornell from the East Midlands Regional Prisons Intelligence Unit commented on the case, stating, “These sentences reflect the gravity of the multitude of offences committed.” He highlighted that Novas's actions undermined public trust in prison staff, despite the majority of officers adhering to high standards of integrity. A spokesperson for HMP Five Wells echoed this sentiment, affirming their commitment to maintaining professional standards and cooperating with law enforcement to prevent corruption.

HMP Five Wells prison officer's relationship with violent inmate rumbled when he Snapchatted lewd video to his pals

While Novas's defense argued that she was manipulated, the judge maintained that she had the responsibility to report her relationship and seek help. Critics of the case may point to the systemic issues within prison environments that can lead to such misconduct, including the pressures faced by young officers in high-stress situations.

HMP Five Wells prison officer's relationship with violent inmate rumbled when he Snapchatted lewd video to his pals

Both Novas and Winkless will serve their sentences concurrently, with Novas expected to serve half of her term in custody. This case underscores the serious implications of misconduct within correctional facilities and the ongoing efforts to uphold integrity among prison staff.

Prison officer who had sexual relationship with inmate is jailed