Jail Time Doubled for Prison Smuggling Plot

A prison inmate's sentence for smuggling offenses has been significantly increased. Declan Winkless, 31, who is currently housed at HMP Five Wells, had his initial sentence of three years and four months quashed by the Court of Appeal. The revised sentence now stands at five years, reflecting the seriousness of his admitted offenses. These included encouraging misconduct in public office and unauthorized communication. Winkless also admitted to possessing cannabis and unauthorized communication devices within the prison. His new five-year term will commence after he completes his current sentence in April 2029. Alicia Novas, 20, a former prison officer from Raunds, Northamptonshire, who became involved with Winkless, received a three-year jail sentence in January. She admitted to six offenses, including misconduct in public office. Her sentence remains unchanged.