Prison chief fined for possessing cocaine

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An award-winning prison deputy governor faces a career in ruins after being fined for possessing cocaine.

Terry McLaren, 47, who works at Bullingdon Prison, Oxfordshire, pleaded guilty to possessing 4.79 grams of the drug and was fined £250 and ordered to pay £55 costs by Woolwich magistrates in south-east London yesterday.

Police searched his bedsit in Blackheath on 8 January and found the powder inside a bag under the bed. Drug-taking paraphernalia was also found.

Announcing the fine and costs, the chairwoman of the bench, Anne Rowley said: "We've heard about your background and the unexpected facts of this matter and your life. You pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity and you are of previous good character."

Alex Dos Santos, for the defence, said McLaren had been a prison officer "for 23 years' unblemished service, receiving commendations, awards and rapid promotion". He added: "This offence has put his career in jeopardy – he faces a disciplinary hearing. It has far-reaching consequences for Mr McLaren, who has been unwell lately, having been in hospital suffering from depression."

McLaren, who has been suspended from his job, ,declined to comment.