Key Highlights
- Justice Secretary David Lammy states the accidental release of a migrant sex offender was due to “human error.”
- An independent investigation led by Dame Lynne Owens will look into the Kebatu case.
- The number of prisoners released in error is at a record high, with many staff being new to their roles.
- New procedures for the “early removal scheme” will ensure foreign nationals are only released if the duty governor is present.
Accidental Release of Sex Offender Sparks Scrutiny on Prisons
In a series of events that have drawn immediate attention, Justice Secretary David Lammy announced that the accidental release of migrant sex offender Hadush Kebatu from HMP Chelmsford was due to “human error.” The incident has raised concerns among lawmakers and the public alike.
Investigation and New Procedures
Lammy confirmed an independent investigation, led by Dame Lynne Owens, a former Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police. This investigation will aim to fully establish the facts surrounding Kebatu’s release. Additionally, new procedures for the “early removal scheme” have been introduced, ensuring that foreign nationals can only be released under this scheme if the duty governor is physically present.
Record High in Errors and Staff Turnover
The Justice Secretary highlighted that 50% of prison staff are effectively new to their roles due to a system inherited from the previous Tory government. He also pointed out that there have been “too many” releases in error, with record numbers being released erroneously since 2021.
Government’s Response and Future Plans
In response to the case, Lammy emphasized the importance of getting to the bottom of what happened. He stated that the government is undertaking the largest prison expansion since the Victorian era, with more people expected in prisons by the end of this parliament than ever before.
Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick criticized the situation, calling it a “national embarrassment” and questioning whether those at fault would face consequences such as being sacked. Lammy defended the government’s actions, stating that there will be “more direct senior accountability,” including a checklist for governors to ensure stronger release checks.
Timeline of Kebatu’s Case
The case of Hadush Kebatu began on 29 June when he arrived in the UK from Ethiopia. Kebatu was sentenced to 12 months in prison for sexually assaulting a woman and a 14-year-old girl, among other charges. Despite his conviction, he was mistakenly released back into the community, leading to a two-day manhunt before being apprehended on Sunday morning.
Justice Secretary David Lammy’s statement came amidst growing concerns over the accuracy of release procedures within the prison system and highlighted the need for reform in handling foreign nationals under the “early removal scheme.”
This incident has sparked debates not only about prison management but also about immigration policies, with calls for more stringent measures to prevent similar cases from recurring.
