Summary
A rape suspect was mistakenly released from a UK prison and has left the country. The man was supposed to remain in custody but got released after a court official incorrectly said he could be granted bail. Efforts are underway to bring him back for trial.
Key Facts
- A man accused of rape and other charges was accidentally set free from HMP Wormwood Scrubs.
- The man left the UK shortly after his mistaken release.
- The error happened because a court official wrongly said he could be released on bail.
- The suspect, in his forties, cannot be named due to legal reasons.
- He was initially supposed to stand trial in June, but the court considered moving the date to March.
- The released man traveled using one of his two passports; the police held the other one.
- A judge has called on the UK government to ensure the man returns for trial.
- There was a significant rise in prisoners mistakenly released in the year leading to March 2025.
