A startling security failure at a Derbyshire prison has been exposed after an inmate who was mistakenly released voluntarily returned to custody.
The prisoner, who had been held at HMP Sudbury, was incorrectly freed due to what authorities are calling an "administrative error." In a surprising turn of events, the individual handed himself back in to authorities on Tuesday evening.
Security Breach at Category D Facility
HMP Sudbury, a Category D open prison in Derbyshire, is designed to hold inmates considered to pose the lowest risk. However, this incident has raised serious questions about the establishment's security protocols and administrative procedures.
The mistaken release occurred earlier this week, prompting an immediate investigation into how such a significant error could occur within the prison system.
Voluntary Return Raises Questions
What makes this case particularly unusual is that the prisoner chose to return voluntarily. This development suggests the individual may have realised the error or decided against attempting to remain at large.
Prison authorities have confirmed that the matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness, with a full review underway to prevent any recurrence of such security lapses.
Ongoing Search for Second Inmate
Meanwhile, the search continues for a second prisoner who was also mistakenly released from the same facility. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to locate this individual.
The double release error has highlighted potential systemic issues within the prison's release procedures that require immediate attention.
The Ministry of Justice has been approached for comment regarding both the initial error and the ongoing investigation into the security breach at HMP Sudbury.
