Inmates 'sold' mobile phones

Allegations centre on one officer

An inquiry has been launched at Risley Prison in Warrington after inmates alleged that a prison officer had been smuggling in mobile phones for money.

Risley Prison houses Category C inmates and has a separate sex offenders wing.

Mobile phones are banned in all UK prisons but inmates are allowed restricted access to the prison phones.

The Prison Service confirmed that one officer was being investigated after complaints by prisoners, but that he had not been suspended.

An internal investigation is underway Prison Service spokesman

It is believed the allegations concern prisoners being offered mobile phones in return for cash.

A Prison Service spokesman said: "We can confirm that an allegation of inappropriate behaviour has been made against an officer at Risley.

"An internal investigation is underway."