Prison officer arrested over 'affair with killer'

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A prison officer was arrested over claims that she had an affair with a teenage killer, it was revealed today.

Emma Beard, 30, was allegedly caught performing a sex act on convicted murderer Danny McLean.

Photos of her posing semi-naked and love letters were found during a search of his cell at Feltham Young Offenders Institution, west London.

One was signed "I love you" and another said "I dream about you and I can't stay away from you", the Sun reported.

Beard, of Feltham, was suspended on Tuesday and arrested yesterday. She could face a charge of gross misconduct in public office.

McLean, 18, was jailed for life in July for the knife murder of Shakilus Townsend. He will serve a minimum of 15 years for the killing.

Shakilus, 16, was stabbed six times after he was lured into a "honey trap" in Thornton Heath, south London, last year. His ex-girlfriend, Samantha Joseph, was also jailed for murder.

A Prison Service spokesman said: "An officer from Feltham Young Offenders Institution has been suspended pending the outcome of a police investigation.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "We can confirm officers from Hounslow CID are investigating an allegation of gross misconduct in a public office made by Feltham Young Offenders Institution.

"Detectives arrested a 30-year-old woman in connection with the investigation.

"She remains in custody at a west London police station whilst inquiries continue."