Overview

• Kerri Pegg, former governor of HMP Kirkham, was convicted of misconduct in public office and possession of criminal property after a three-week trial at Preston Crown Court.
• Pegg engaged in an inappropriate relationship with Anthony Saunderson, a convicted drug gang leader serving a 35-year sentence, who bought her a £12,000 Mercedes using drug money.
• She approved Saunderson's temporary release without proper authority, violating prison protocols and raising serious concerns about abuse of power.
• Police uncovered evidence of her connection to Saunderson, including his DNA on personal items at her home, as well as her significant financial debts, which made her vulnerable to corruption.
• The conviction underscores systemic issues of accountability within the Prison Service, with Pegg now facing an impending prison sentence.