A correctional officer facing allegations of engaging in sexual activity with a convicted thief expressed admiration for him after he performed a rap over the phone, a court was informed. Isabelle Dale, 23, reportedly praised Shahid Sharif, 33, for his musical performance during a recorded conversation where she complimented his rap skills. Sharif, serving a 12-year sentence for participating in a robbery at a jewelry store, sang lyrics related to his experiences, including references to post-traumatic stress disorder while conversing with Dale at HMP Coldingley near Woking, Surrey.
Witnesses at Southwark Crown Court detailed how Dale and Sharif were seen engaging in intimate activities in a prayer room at the prison, with two inmates serving as lookouts. The prosecution stated that Dale assisted Sharif in smuggling envelopes containing the drug spice into another prison, allegedly operating a drug-dealing Snapchat account for him with the help of Lilea Sallis. Upon Dale’s arrest, authorities found drug-related items in her car, along with an engagement ring reportedly purchased by Sharif and a framed canvas of the couple in her living space.
Recordings of phone conversations presented to the jury included discussions about hot chocolate, where Dale shared her preparation methods with Sharif. Additionally, Victoria Mital, a safety lead at HMP Coldingley, testified regarding a complaint from Dale about perceived mistreatment by two other prison staff members, citing age, gender, and appearance as factors influencing the alleged bullying.
Dale faces charges of misconduct in a public office and conspiracy to convey prohibited items into the prison, while Sallis denies involvement in the conspiracy. Sharif previously admitted to conspiring with the two women and others to smuggle drugs into the prison. The trial is ongoing.
