A suspected rapist has fled the United Kingdom after being accidentally released from prison weeks before his trial, according to reports. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was charged with multiple counts of rape, sexual assault, and violence against a woman. He was freed after an official at Isleworth Crown Court in London mistakenly granted him bail during a pre-trial hearing in February.
The suspect subsequently left the country shortly after his release. Judge Martin Edmunds KC, who is overseeing the case, has called on the government to assist in tracking him down and ensuring he faces trial. The judge stated that the error was extremely rare and that a full investigation would be conducted to prevent a recurrence.
The confusion reportedly arose because the defendant was also facing another criminal case for which he had been granted bail. The barrister for the accused said the man fled to a European country after his release but cannot return because his British passport is still held by police. He used a passport from his country of origin to leave the UK.
Judge Edmunds has requested confirmation from the Foreign or Home Office that arrangements are in place to allow the defendant to return to the UK if he chooses to engage. A further hearing is scheduled for Tuesday to decide whether the trial can be brought forward to March and whether the suspect can be extradited.
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: 'An individual was mistakenly released on bail on Friday, February 6. His Majesty's Courts and Tribunal Service is investigating this matter, and we are urgently working with the police to return them to custody.' The spokesperson added that the government is investing millions to modernise technology and replace archaic paper-based systems.
