HEATED, threatening comments made to a prison officer have extended an inmate’s stay behind bars.

Nine Smith was said to be “incredibly upset” during the recorded exchange either side of her cell door at Low Newton Prison, near Durham, on August 31, this year.

As a result of threats made to the officer she was “gate” arrested on the day of her release from the prison, on September 8.

The 40-year-old defendant, of Hoxton Road, Scarborough, who has remained in custody since her arrest, was charged with making threats to kill.

Appearing via video link from HMP New Hall, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire, she admitted the offence during a hearing at Durham Crown Court.

Judge James Adkin agreed to a request from Smith’s counsel, Nick Peacock, to adjourn sentence to allow for preparation of a report by the Probation Service.

Remanding her to remain in custody until sentence, on November 6, he told Smith: “You have a background of relatively minor offending, but you have now pleaded guilty to threats to kill.

“You should expect a custodial sentence for threatening to kill a prison officer.”