A British inmate who went viral after a sex video involving him and a prison officer inside a cell has described the incident as the “biggest regret” of his life.
The inmate, identified as Linton Weirich, spoke publicly about the widely circulated 2024 footage that showed him engaging in sexual activity with prison officer Linda De Sousa Abreu at HMP Wandsworth.
The clip triggered a major scandal, a police investigation, and widespread public backlash after it spread online.
Weirich, now 38, said the incident has had long-lasting consequences on his personal life, family relationships, and reputation, adding that the attention brought more harm than he anticipated.
He claimed that prison conditions and staffing culture have changed significantly over the years, alleging that discipline inside the system has weakened.
According to him, earlier prison environments were stricter, while current staffing, in his view, lacks the same level of control.
He also alleged that some prison staff engage in corrupt practices, including smuggling prohibited items into facilities in exchange for money.
Reflecting on the viral video, Weirich said public reactions were mixed at the time, with some people celebrating him online, but insisted the fallout has been deeply damaging.
“People called me a legend, but the effect it’s had is terrible. It caused so much damage to my partner, my family and myself. It’s the biggest regret of my life,” he said.
Following the incident, he was transferred from HMP Wandsworth to HMP Swaleside, where he reportedly faced further violence, which he linked to the wider consequences of the scandal.
The prison officer involved, Linda De Sousa Abreu, later left her position after the video emerged.
She subsequently admitted misconduct in public office and was sentenced to 15 months in prison in January 2025, serving part of her term before being released on licence.
Weirich said he no longer wishes to dwell on the incident or the officer involved, stating that he is focused on moving forward with his life.
When contacted previously, Abreu denied allegations that she brought food items into the prison for inmates, but acknowledged the institution was understaffed and difficult to manage. She also expressed regret over her actions.
The UK Ministry of Justice said the vast majority of prison staff act professionally, adding that it is tightening vetting processes and increasing investment in security measures to curb corruption and the smuggling of contraband in prisons.
