Prison tutor admits misconduct after secret relationship with inmate at HMP Chelmsford
Melissa Murphy pleaded guilty
A prison tutor at HMP Chelmsford has admitted to engaging in an inappropriate relationship with an inmate, following the discovery of personal letters and a security incident that raised serious concerns among prison staff.
Melissa Murphy, 48, formerly known as Melissa O’Brien, lived in Dorset Close, Chelmsford, and worked at the prison for four years as an instructor helping prepare prisoners for employment upon release.
Her conduct came under scrutiny in December 2023 when correspondence between her and an inmate was found, prompting an internal investigation.
Murphy was first arrested on 11 December 2023 and subsequently dismissed from her role.
After further inquiries, she was formally charged via postal requisition on 12 February 2025.
She appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court on 28 November, where she pleaded guilty to one count of misconduct in a public office.
According to investigators, Murphy met the prisoner during the summer of 2023 and claimed the first letter from him arrived in November that year.
Instead of reporting the contact, as required under prison regulations, she responded, and the pair went on to exchange multiple letters that suggested a developing relationship.
The situation escalated when a colleague attempted to enter a classroom occupied only by Murphy and the inmate, only to find the door locked from the inside. The staff member also noticed that Murphy’s keys, required by protocol to remain secured to her person at all times, had been removed, posing a potential security risk.
Following the incident, Murphy was arrested, and additional letters were uncovered during a search of her home, along with a photograph of the inmate found in her bedroom.
Authorities have not yet announced a sentencing date.
Detective Constable Becky Sparrow, the officer in the case, said:
“Murphy abused a position of trust by forming this inappropriate relationship.
“By definition, anyone held in prison is in a vulnerable position. It is crucial staff and prison officers do not put those they are required to help in positions such as this – she potentially put both of them at risk of harm through these actions.
“We now wait to hear what sentence the courts will pass.”