A PRISON worker charged over an “inappropriate relationship” with Zara Aleena’s killer while in Britain’s most secure jail has appeared in court.
Hayley Jones is accused of having a month-long fling with Jordan McSweeney, 31, after growing close to him at HMP Belmarsh.
The 33-year-old appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court today charged with misconduct in a public office, which carries a life sentence.
She spoke to confirm her full name, date of birth and address during the short hearing.
McSweeney – serving a life sentence for murdering Zara – has been charged with encouraging or assisting the commission of an indictable offence.
The pair were allegedly in a relationship between March 6, 2023, and April 7, 2023.
McSweeney also appeared in court via video link from HMP Long Lartin in Worcestershire.
Wearing a grey prison-issued tracksuit, he was shown sitting at a desk in a plain room with his head resting on his hand.
Jones was granted conditional bail and must not contact McSweeney or visit the prison where he is being held.
The case was adjourned to be dealt with at Woolwich Crown Court on September 25.
Jones, from Strood in Kent, was arrested in April last year after cops received an allegation of inappropriate conduct.
She was also suspended from her role as a workshop instructor at Britain’s most secure jail after the claim came to light.
McSweeney had been released from a prison sentence just nine days before he pounced on Zara, 35, as she walked home.
His licence had been revoked after failing to meet probation officers but he was not recalled to prison.
This meant the predator was free to roam the streets hunting for a victim.
On the night of Zara’s murder, McSweeney was captured on CCTV stalking the streets of East London.
At least four other women managed to escape the killer’s clutches as he followed them in the darkness.
After setting his sights on the law graduate, McSweeney dragged her into a driveway where he repeatedly kicked and stamped on her.
Zara was discovered partially clothed and struggling to breathe by horrified neighbours who heard her screams.
The aspiring lawyer had just started working at the Royal Courts of Justice when she was killed.
McSweeney was jailed for life with a minimum of 38 years in December 2022 after admitting murder and sexual assault.
This was later reduced to 33 years following a successful appeal at the Court of Appeal.
A Prison Service spokesperson said: “It would be inappropriate to comment on live legal proceedings.”
