Morgan Farr Varney’s forbidden romance exposed
A young prison officer who fell for an inmate and carried on a secret relationship behind bars has been jailed after CCTV and handwritten love letters exposed the scandal.
Morgan Farr Varney, 24, was sentenced to 10 months in prison at Sheffield Crown Court after pleading guilty to misconduct in public office.
Caught on camera
Farr Varney worked at HMP Lindholme in 2022, where CCTV captured her sneaking into a cupboard with the inmate and loitering together in unauthorised areas of the prison wing. The footage raised red flags and led to a deeper investigation.
A search of the inmate’s cell uncovered intimate letters from Farr Varney, confirming a romantic relationship. When her home was searched, officers found additional letters, further exposing the extent of their connection.
Love letters and photos
Despite having completed anti-corruption training as part of her officer induction, Farr Varney admitted she had “proper fallen in love” with the prisoner. During her police interview, she reportedly said: “I’ve f***** my life up.”
Following her arrest in January 2023, she resigned from her position — but the relationship continued. Even after the inmate was transferred to HMP Wealstun, officers later discovered photographs of Farr Varney displayed inside his new cell.
No excuses for betraying trust
Detective Constable Scott Jarvis, who led the case, said:
“These types of relationships are thankfully rare, but when they do happen, they undermine the reputation of the prison service and of the many officers who do their jobs with professionalism and integrity.
We take any report of an inappropriate relationship extremely seriously. Farr Varney’s actions were a serious breach of trust, and I hope this sentencing sends a clear message — if you engage in this kind of behaviour, you will be caught.”
The investigation was supported by the HMPPS Counter Corruption Unit, who assisted South Yorkshire Police in building the case.
End of the line
Farr Varney’s secret affair might have started with scribbled love notes and stolen moments behind closed doors — but it ended in disgrace, a prison cell, and a lasting reminder that the rules inside prison apply to everyone, staff included.
