A man convicted of rape who managed to escape prison custody claimed that he protested his release to guards, asserting it was a mistake. Bernadin Dedic, 48, was awaiting trial for multiple rape allegations when he was mistakenly freed from HMP Wormwood Scrubs earlier this year. Following his release, Dedic swiftly left the UK for Bosnia.
Dedic informed the Press Association that despite knowing he had not been granted bail by a judge, prison authorities told him he was free to go. He tried to convince them to let him stay, stating, “This is a mistake,” but was still pushed out. Initially arrested in September on suspicion of rape, Dedic had been in custody awaiting a trial set for March.
An error at Isleworth Crown Court led to a mix-up in digital case files, leading to the incorrect belief that Dedic had been granted bail, which was then relayed to the prison. Despite efforts by his legal team to secure bail, Dedic was released erroneously. He chose not to return for his trial in March, citing visa and health issues.
In his absence, Dedic was found guilty of numerous charges, including rape, sexual assault, and making threats. Despite the verdict, Dedic expressed no intention of returning for sentencing, mentioning a fear of confined spaces. The court heard disturbing details of the crime, involving drug use and threats against the victim’s life.
The judge overseeing the case expressed skepticism about Dedic’s health-related excuses and labeled his behavior as an attempt to evade justice. The Ministry of Justice announced reforms following an investigation into the prisoner’s mistaken release. Efforts are underway to ensure Dedic is brought back to face sentencing, with a review hearing scheduled for July 7.
