A TROWBRIDGE woman has been jailed after pleading guilty to harbouring an escaped prisoner.

Debra Kerr, 52, of Summerleaze, appeared in Salisbury Crown Court yesterday charged with the offence.

On May 21, 2018, serving prisoner Tony Crowley, 35, was reported to have escaped lawful custody at HMP Sudbury, Ashbourne. He was serving a life sentence for a series of robberies whilst in possession of a firearm.

The same day, Kerr travelled to the prison, collected Crowley, housed him at her address in Trowbridge and kept him from being recaptured and taken back to custody.

They were not in a relationship, but Kerr knew somebody else at the prison and this is how she got to know Crowley.

While Crowley was living with her, Kerr’s behaviour caused those who knew her concern, and information was reported to police.

On May 31, armed officers attended her address where they located Crowley and his partner in the living room.

Crowley was arrested for escaping from lawful custody and has since been returned back to custody.

Yesterday, Kerr was sentenced to six months imprisonment at Salisbury Crown Court.

Det Sgt Rob Blake said: “Kerr’s actions were completely irresponsible and as a result, put herself and the public in Wiltshire at serious risk.

"Crowley was serving a life sentence for armed robberies and is a dangerous and prolific offender who had the potential to cause harm to our community.

“Kerr went out of her way to hide Crowley and assist him in his attempts to escape prison and evade police.

"I am pleased that we have been able to put her before the courts and they have imprisoned her for her dangerous criminal behaviour.”