Justice Secretary David Lammy has initiated an independent investigation into the erroneous release of a failed asylum seeker who sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl. Ethiopian national Hadush Kebatu, who had been mistakenly set free from HMP Chelmsford instead of being transferred to an immigration detention center, was apprehended after a two-day search.
Lammy informed Members of Parliament that Kebatu would soon be deported to Ethiopia but expressed deep concern for the victims and the public over the incident. He emphasized the need for accountability for the error, attributing Kebatu’s release to “human error.”
In response to the blunder, Lammy appointed Dame Lynn Owens, a former deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, to investigate the circumstances surrounding Kebatu’s release. Enhanced checks and procedures for prisoner releases are being implemented, including increased oversight, mandatory presence of a duty governor for foreign national deportations, and a suspension of removals from HMP Chelmsford.
Addressing the rise in mistaken releases, Lammy highlighted the impact of budget cuts on the justice system, criticizing the Conservative government’s handling of the crisis. He pointed out significant reductions in funding and staffing levels, leading to increased pressure on prisons and a higher likelihood of errors.
The Shadow Justice Secretary, Robert Jenrick, criticized the government for the weekend’s events, labeling them an “absolute farce” and holding Lammy accountable. In turn, Lammy vehemently defended his stance, attributing the system’s shortcomings to the previous government’s policies.
Concerns have also been raised about the impact of visa restrictions on prison staffing. Governor Paul Crossey of HMP Feltham expressed worries about the recent changes affecting foreign national officers’ visas, potentially leading to staff shortages and recruitment challenges in prisons.
Justice Minister Jake Richards confirmed ongoing discussions with the Home Office to address the visa issue, emphasizing the government’s commitment to reducing net migration while exploring measures to support prison staffing.
Overall, the incident has sparked a broader debate on the state of the justice system and the challenges faced by prisons in recruitment and retention of staff, amidst calls for improved accountability and safeguards to prevent similar errors in the future.