Prison officer jailed over drugs

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A prison officer who admitted smuggling heroin and cocaine to inmates after being caught with steroids in his underpants was jailed for five years.

Adam Seamark, 25, from Daventry, Northamptonshire, was arrested in December 2007 at HM Woodhill high security prison in Milton Keynes.

Aylesbury Crown Court was told he was found with 400 steroid tablets following a tip-off to police.

The defence told the court Seamark had been "groomed" by inmates.

When interviewed Seamark said he had been approached by two prisoners who had threatened him, the court heard.

'Singled out'

He said he had taken in other drugs on at least four occasions and admitted being asked to supply a mobile phone to an inmate, the court was told.

The prosecution said Seamark admitted receiving between £1,000 and £1,600 for smuggling the drugs.

Seamark, from Ruskin Way, Daventry, admitted three charges of attempting to supply controlled drugs - two Class A and one Class C, possession of steroids with intent to supply and misconduct in a public office.

Alistair Polson, defending, said: "Prisoners found out personal details about Mr Seamark and his family and threatened Mr Seamark and his partner. He was placed under real duress.

"He was given money, but did not solicit it. He was singled out and exploited by ruthless individuals."

Judge Christopher Tyrer said: "Yours was a gross betrayal and a huge breach of trust. You put your own interests in front of your duties."