Articles by Neal Keeling

Technology

Corrupt prison counsellor is jailed

A corrupt prison counsellor has been jailed. Carrie Yih, from Bolton, was working at HMP Lancaster Farms when she had an inappropriate relationship with an inmate. Despite receiving counter-corruption training, Yih engaged in sexually explicit communications with the prisoner, both during and after his time in custody, and supplied him with controlled drugs. On March 1st 2023 officers from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit raided Yih's home address. Join the Manchester Evening News WhatsApp group HERE She was arrested and found in possession of a bottle of suspected anabolic steroids; a blister pack of pregabalin tablets; syringes and needles; personal items belonging to the prisoner, including bank cards; and a leisure resort booking form linked to a suspected weekend away with the prisoner. Yih attempted to discard a carrier bag containing the prisoner's belongings into a neighbour’s garden as officers arrived. Today Yih, mental health counsellor, was sentenced at Bolton Crown Court following an investigation led by the North West Regional Prison Anti-Corruption Unit. Yih, 47, of Rawcliffe Avenue, Bolton was jailed for 10 months after pleading guilty to misconduct in a public office; and being concerned in the supply of Class C controlled drugs – anabolic steroids and pregabalin tablets. Detective Inspector Brian Morley said: "Today’s sentencing reflects the seriousness of breaching professional boundaries and facilitating criminal activity within a custodial setting. Here at the NWROCU, we remain committed to identifying and disrupting corruption within the prison estate and safeguarding the integrity of public service roles." The prisoner has previously received a conditional discharge for possession of Class C drugs.