Prisoner Re-Arrested After Wrongful Release
Brahim Kaddour-Cherif, a 24-year-old Algerian convicted sex offender, has been re-incarcerated at HMP Wandsworth following nearly a week on the run. His release occurred by mistake on October 29 due to confusion over his custodial sentence for possession of a knife, which was mistaken for a suspended sentence in the prison's computer system.
Background of the Offender
- Kaddour-Cherif is a registered sex offender.
- He was previously convicted of indecent exposure on November 24 and received a community order.
- He was placed on the sex offenders' registry for five years.
Events Leading to Re-Arrest
The Met Police conducted a two-day manhunt before an anonymous tip-off led to his capture. The offender was spotted by a member of the public in Blackhorse Lane, Islington, just before 11:30 am, prompting officers to respond quickly and arrest him.
“Officers have arrested Brahim Kaddour Cherif who was released in error from HMP Wandsworth on 29 October. Cherif was spotted by a member of the public in Blackhorse Lane, Islington just before 11.30am. Officers responded immediately and he was arrested.”
Moment of Arrest
Incredible footage shows the arrest in Finsbury Park, North London, where an officer remarked that Kaddour-Cherif looked “exactly like the person,” identifying him by his “distinctive wonky nose.” Despite the offender claiming, “I am not Brahim,” police confirmed his identity.
“He looked exactly like the person” with a “distinctive wonky nose.”
“I am not Brahim,” the offender said upon arrest.
Summary
The police swiftly apprehended Brahim Kaddour-Cherif after a mistaken release, thanks to vigilant public reporting and quick law enforcement response.
Author’s note: This incident highlights critical lapses in prisoner management and the power of public vigilance in aiding law enforcement.