Former Prison Governor Jailed Nine Years for Relationship with Liverpool Drug Gang Boss

Kerri Pegg, a former prison governor once regarded as a rising star in the UK Prison Service, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for misconduct in public office and possession of criminal property due to her secret relationship with Anthony Saunderson, a notorious Liverpool drug gang boss serving a 35-year sentence. Pegg, who rose rapidly through the ranks to become governor at HMP Kirkham, approved a temporary release for Saunderson without authority and was found to possess luxury items funded by his drug trafficking profits. Investigations revealed that Pegg frequently met with Saunderson behind closed doors during his incarceration and continued the relationship after his release, with evidence including items carrying his DNA found in her apartment. Despite claiming her contact was related to a prison rehabilitation programme, prosecutors argued Pegg's actions seriously undermined public trust and prison order, with her financial struggles possibly contributing to her misconduct. The case has highlighted concerns over breaches of professional boundaries and corruption risks within the prison system. Authorities condemned Pegg's behavior as a betrayal of the Prison Service and public trust.