Linda De Sousa Abreu, a Wandsworth prison officer, appeared in court after a viral video showed her having sex with an inmate. Arrested at Heathrow Airport, she faces strict bail conditions. The case has sparked widespread condemnation and an urgent police investigation.
A female prison officer, Linda De Sousa Abreu, has appeared in court after being caught having sex with an inmate at Wandsworth prison. The incident came to light when a video of the act went viral. Abreu, 30, was arrested at Heathrow Airport as she attempted to board a flight to Madrid. In her court appearance at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court, she confirmed her details before leaving with her face covered and carrying a large suitcase.
The Metropolitan Police launched an urgent investigation after becoming aware of the video, which was reportedly filmed between June 26 and 28 inside the prison. Prosecutor Niamh McDonagh revealed that Abreu had booked a flight to Madrid, where she has relatives and was apprehended at the airport. Her Portuguese passport was seized by police.
Defending lawyer Gayathri Yogarajah stated that Abreu had informed HMP Wandsworth of her travel plans, which were then passed on to Scotland Yard. Abreu was granted conditional bail and must remain at a specified southwest London address. Her Portuguese passport and identity card must stay with the police, and she is forbidden from applying for international travel documents. Additionally, she must be electronically monitored between 9 am and 7 pm and is barred from entering any UK port.
A Prison Service spokesperson condemned staff corruption and noted that Abreu has been reported to the police. The case will proceed with a plea and case management hearing on July 29 at Isleworth Crown Court.
