Jails guarded by criminals

MORE than 200 convicted criminals are working in jails as newly qualified warders.

The figure has sparked fears crime gangs could use the staff to infiltrate prisons and smuggle in drugs.

There are 158 former offenders employed by the Prison Service and 46 at private jails.

Their convictions are understood to include drug possession and affray.

The prison officers’ association is demanding an inquiry. Chairman Mark Fairhurst said: “We are worried about organised criminals infiltrating the service to smuggle contraband.

“It is an obvious way for gangs to get associates or family members into jobs of trust.”

Mr Fairhurst blamed the Government’s rush to recruit 2,500 more officers in a crisis situation.

He explained: “Five or ten years ago most of these applicants with criminal records would have been turned down flat.

“Now, with the Government panicking about critical staffing levels, they are welcomed with open arms.

“Prisoners will look to exploit any vulnerability of officers.”

The figures were revealed under Freedom of Information laws. In 2016 former Justice Secretary Liz Truss unveiled a white paper promising 2,500 extra warders.

The Government claims to have exceeded its target with more than 3,000 new officers.

But critics point to high drop-out rates as 928 quit in the year to September.

And 2,230 have left in five years after less than 12 months in the job. As a result the cost of wasted training is estimated as £25.6million.

The Prison Service said: “Reformed ex-offenders bring valuable skills and experience to rehabilitation roles.

“Anyone who applies undergoes rigorous checks.”