Woman admits passing over drugs package to inmate at HMP Deerbolt

Louise Stabler will appear at Durham Crown Court later this month for sentencing after pleading guilty to bringing drugs into a prison, in Barnard Castle.

The serial shoplifter admitting an array of theft offences, most in breach of a criminal behaviour order (CBO) put in place by magistrates last May. The 37-year-old, of Shinwell Crescent in Thornley, admitted 29 thefts and 26 breaches of her CBO.

She will also be sentenced for trying to bring/throw drugs into a prison.

Stabler admitted trying to pass alprazolam tablets over on a visit to HMP Deerbolt, near Barnard Castle, on May 17 last year.

She was seen on CCTV handing over a package, found to contain the Class C drugs, to a prisoner.

Stabler was taken into custody, shown the CCTV and replied no comment in interview.

But having now admitted the offence, she will be sentenced along with all other matters at the crown court, on Thursday February 26.

PC Rob Booth, of Barnard Castle neighbourhood policing team, said: “This is a great result, demonstrating that we will take action and target anyone involved in the supply of drugs in and out of prisons.

“We’re working closely with our prison partners to keep drugs out by dismantling illegal activity and ensure those responsible are held accountable, like Stabler.”

He urged anyone aware of any form of criminal activity, or with concerns, to contact police on 101.