Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Prison Contractor Jailed for 20 Months for Smuggling Cannabis Into HMP Liverpool

The judge said breaching a trusted role in the prison estate warranted an immediate custodial sentence.

Overview

  • Paul Heath, 48, an Amey maintenance worker at the Walton prison, admitted conveying a prohibited article and being concerned in the supply of cannabis.
  • He was stopped on 27 May 2024 when a detection dog flagged him at security, leading to the seizure of 493g of cannabis.
  • Searches found drugs in a concealed second pair of trousers and parcels taped to his ankles, along with £425 in cash and two phones from his locker.
  • Phone messages showed planning as far back as February 2024, including discussions about bringing weapons into the jail, and he admitted earlier cannabis deliveries.
  • The court heard he was paid several hundred pounds up to £1,000 per run to fund a severe gambling addiction, and the sentence was framed as a deterrent to similar offending.