Ex-CPS Paralegal Rachel Simpson Busted for Leaking Secrets to Crime Gangs
Rachel Simpson, a former paralegal at the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), was arrested in June 2020 by South Wales Police’s Anti-Corruption Unit. The probe was then taken over by Tarian, the Regional Organised Crime Unit for Southern Wales.
Crime Ring Intel Handed Over for Years
Investigators uncovered that Simpson had been feeding confidential info from police and CPS sources to organised crime groups in Newport—and later, Merseyside—over several years. This breach allowed criminals to stay one step ahead of law enforcement.
Detective Slams ‘Betrayal of Trust’
“Simpson enjoyed a position of trust and responsibility within the CPS which she betrayed, letting down her colleagues, the police and the public,” said Detective Inspector Matt Houghton of Tarian.
“Our investigation led to two counts of misconduct in public office plus 29 offences related to computer misuse—evidence so overwhelming that Simpson had no choice but to plead guilty early on.”
CPS Boss Demands Integrity
Andrew Penhale, Chief Crown Prosecutor, said: “As a CPS employee, Simpson was only supposed to access sensitive info when necessary for her job.
“She flagrantly abused this access and passed on sensitive material twice to organised criminals.
“The CPS demands integrity from all staff. Simpson fell far short. We’ll prosecute any unlawful conduct and continuously strengthen digital security.”
