ITV News Exclusive: Moment Wrongly Released Wandsworth Prisoner Hands Himself In
William Smith told ITV News that he was surrendering voluntarily after being accidentally released on Monday, 3 November.
Incident Overview
One of the prisoners mistakenly released from Wandsworth prison has returned voluntarily, ITV News has learned. The 35-year-old from Surrey was recorded on Thursday morning as he re-entered the prison with his partner, whom he embraced before approaching staff at the entrance.
Background and Police Response
- William Smith had been sentenced to 45 months for multiple fraud offences at Croydon Crown Court on the day of his accidental release.
- Following the error, Surrey Police launched a manhunt. Smith was described as white, bald, clean-shaven, wearing a navy long-sleeve jumper with a Nike logo, navy blue Nike tracksuit bottoms, and black trainers.
- Surrey Police confirmed that Smith handed himself back in on Thursday, ending the search.
“We are cancelling our appeal to help find wanted 35-year-old William Smith, who was released in error from HMP Wandsworth on Monday, 3 November. Smith handed himself in to HMP Wandsworth today.”
Government Reaction
The government has called for a crisis meeting with prison officials to address the situation, as reported by ITV News correspondents Paul Brand and Robert Peston.
Summary
The accidental release of William Smith from Wandsworth prison has been resolved after he voluntarily returned, prompting a government inquiry into the error.
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