A PRISON officer has been jailed after he was found smuggling contraband into the prison he was working in.

Joshua Bossman-Brandt, 40, of Ripplesmere, Bracknell, was found to be in posession of mobile phones, tobacco, and an Xbox One during a search before his shift started.

Cocaine and cannabis were also found in his car.

Following this, an inquiry found out that Bossman-Brandt had been supplying inmates at HMP Coldingley with SIM cards, mobile phones and tobacco.

Bossman-Brandt was sentenced in Guilford Crown Court on January 3 to six years and nine months in prison.

The Governor of HMP Coldingley, Joanne Sims, said “A case such as this brings to light the hard work of prison staff and police officers to uncover attempts to smuggle contraband items into and out of prison premises. 

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"It’s disappointing that a member of prison staff was involved, but I am pleased that intelligence was received that highlighted the offences being committed so that appropriate action could be taken. 

"This result sends a clear message that such activity will be brought to light and punished.

"I’d like to thank my staff and the investigating officers for their hard work to build a clear picture of Bossman-Brandt’s activities”.

Detective Sergeant Jo Smith added: “These offences first came to light after intelligence was received by the prison service and, working closely with the South East Regional Prison Intelligence Team, a search was carried out prior to Joshua Bossman-Brandt starting work on 30 June 2019.

"Our investigation subsequently revealed that he had made thousands of pounds from bringing banned items into the prison.

"Cocaine and cannabis were also found in Bossman-Brandt’s car outside of the prison.

“This sentence demonstrates the seriousness of Bossman-Brandt’s offences and It sends a clear message that this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated”.

Detective Chief Inspector Ricky Dhanda, from the South East Regional Prison Intelligence Team (SERPIT), said: “A significant amount of time was spent by our officers to assist Surrey Police in their investigation, which has resulted in today’s sentencing.

"We will continue to work the Prison Service and police forces across the South East to catch those who abuse their positions and aid criminals.”