Police discovered Anthony Saunderson's DNA on a pair of flip flops at Kerri Pegg's residence during an investigation.

Kerri Pegg, a senior prison service officer, is facing imprisonment after her romantic involvement with Liverpool drug kingpin Anthony Saunderson was uncovered. Saunderson, known as a key figure in a drug empire operating on EncroChat, was linked to Pegg through this messaging service.

Pegg, 42, was found guilty of misconduct in a public office on April 8, with sentencing pending. She rapidly advanced from a graduate to governor at HMP Kirkham in Lancashire over six years, but her ascent masked her illicit activities.

Evidence presented in court revealed that Pegg facilitated Saunderson’s day release and accepted a £12,000 Mercedes as a gift from him. When police searched her home, they found not only Saunderson's DNA but also other incriminating items, suggesting a deep involvement with him.

The messages discovered on Saunderson's phone indicated a continuing relationship with Pegg, featuring references to their expenditures and drug deals. One message suggested using the Mercedes to transport drugs.

Anthony Saunderson's criminal history includes being one of Merseyside’s most wanted fugitives in 2014, involved in a plot to recover £19.5 million in cocaine. He was arrested in Salford and subsequently jailed for drugs and money laundering.

During his time at HMP Kirkham, where he met Pegg, concerns arose regarding their inappropriate relationship. Saunderson’s attempts to gain temporary release were improperly approved by Pegg.

After his release in May 2019, Saunderson resumed his drug activities, engaging in the BADD programme for inmates while orchestrating large-scale drug operations. His connection with Pegg persisted, further complicating the ongoing investigations into their activities.

In August 2022, Saunderson was sentenced to 35 years for his involvement in a significant drug conspiracy after law enforcement operations identified his activities on the EncroChat platform.

Pegg's situation deteriorated as police raided her home in November 2020, uncovering the Mercedes and various luxury items, revealing a lifestyle inconsistent with her income. Despite making £3,000 monthly, Pegg incurred substantial debts and had numerous unpaid judgments against her.

The investigation revealed that Pegg had minimal savings and was heavily in debt. In her defense, Pegg claimed naivety and manipulation by Saunderson, while the prosecution emphasized that Pegg's promising career was compromised by her involvement with him.

Prosecutor Barbara-Louise Webster highlighted that "Anthony Saunderson was her downfall," suggesting the significant impact of their relationship on Pegg's professional integrity.