A female prison officer who smuggled drugs, phones and other banned items into HMP Manchester (Strangeways) for her convicted murderer lover has been jailed for five years and three months, after a covert relationship was uncovered during an intensive police investigation — all sparked by her wearing his watch to work.
Abigail Laidlaw, 28, began an illicit year-long relationship with Troy Beckford, a 33-year-old inmate serving life for murder, while working at the high-security prison. The North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU) discovered she had been secretly smuggling cocaine, cannabis, aftershave, and iPhones into the prison in return for cash and gifts.
The illegal operation came to light after Laidlaw was confronted by her manager in November 2021 — for wearing Beckford’s watch.
Daily Messaging and Drug Smuggling Plot
Investigators found Laidlaw had daily contact with Beckford, exchanging up to 40 messages a day in a WhatsApp group also involving another unnamed inmate. Messages revealed she was actively involved in smuggling prohibited items into Strangeways.
In one damning message, she told Beckford: “You’ve got what you want really — drugs brought in for you every day.” Another message confirmed she was concealing drugs on her person to bypass security.
Police searches of Laidlaw’s home in Bury, Manchester revealed further incriminating evidence, including £2,000 in cash, two iPhones, and online searches related to drug trafficking and money laundering.
Beckford Sentenced Again
Beckford — who is already serving a minimum 30-year sentence for the 2014 murder of Kieran McGrath, who was shot outside the Sheldon Arms pub in Ashton-under-Lyne — has now received an additional six-year sentence, to run concurrently, after admitting conspiracy to convey prohibited articles into prison.
Officer Ignored Corruption Warnings
Despite receiving official anti-corruption training, Laidlaw pursued the relationship and smuggling operation undeterred. She pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office, two counts of conspiracy to convey prohibited articles into prison, and possession of criminal property.
‘Betrayal of Duty’ – Police Response
Detective Inspector Brian Morley, from NWROCU, said:
“Laidlaw was fully aware her actions were criminal. She not only endangered herself but also compromised the safety of fellow staff and inmates. Her behaviour is a betrayal of her position and public trust.”
“The presence of drugs in prison undermines order and security, leading to increased violence, debt, and self-harm. We will continue to act decisively against corrupt individuals working in our justice system.”
Pattern of Prison Officer Corruption
This case adds to a growing list of female officers convicted for inappropriate relationships with inmates. In a separate incident, PC Lorna Pennycook, 38, was jailed for four years after leaking confidential police data to her criminal boyfriend, whom she met online. She illegally accessed police systems hundreds of times and fed information to Anthony Kennedy, a career criminal with 18 previous convictions.
Serious Concerns for Prison Integrity
The spate of recent cases raises serious questions over vetting, oversight, and internal control measures in UK prisons and police forces. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to tackling corruption at all levels.
Anyone with information regarding corruption in prisons is encouraged to contact law enforcement or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.
