A prison officer stands accused of allowing inmates at Kent's biggest jail into the cell of another prisoner to carry out a violent attack.

Alexandru Dop has been charged with misconduct in a public office while performing duties at HMP Swaleside, Eastchurch on the Isle of Sheppey.

The 36-year-old, of Victoria Road, Sheerness, appeared at Medway Magistrates' Court today charged with "wilfully and without reasonable excuse or justification neglecting to perform his duty".

It is alleged the corrections officer abused the public's trust by "allowing" prisoners into the cell of another inmate who then assaulted him on May 20 last year.

Dop, who is on paid suspension from the prison service and currently working elsewhere, spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth during the short hearing.

Co-defendants Danny Forbes, who is now at HMP Stocken in the Midlands, and Rumia Delgado – who has since been released from prison – face charges causing grievous bodily harm to another inmate.

They are also accused of the robbery of a black Panasonic player and a Pioneer sound system.

The pair, both 34, are due appear alongside Dop at Maidstone Crown Court on September 15.

Dop was granted bail by District Judge Stephen Leake on the condition he does not speak with certain people and witnesses.