Prisoner Released in Error From Wormwood Scrubs
William Fernandez was due to be tried for sexual offences
William Fernandez in East Acton station. Picture: Met Police
The police are asking for the public’s help to find a prisoner who was released in error from Wormwood Scrubs.
24-year-old William Fernandez was on remand awaiting trial for sexual assault by touching, indecent exposure and possession of a class B drug – offences for which he was arrested and charged in April 2020.
On Wednesday, 24 March, the Met was informed by staff the prison that Fernandez had that evening been released from custody by mistake.
Officers carried out searches in the local area. However, it is believed that soon after being released, Fernandez travelled by London Underground from East Acton station.
At 8.38pm that night he was seen on CCTV at Oxford Circus tube station and then at 9.24pm he was spotted walking along Wealdstone High Street, heading north.
There have been no confirmed sightings of him since despite extensive enquiries to locate him, including CCTV analysis and house to house enquiries at several locations.
Prior to his arrest in 2020, Fernandez had no fixed address. Officers believe he is most likely to be in the west London area but he has been known to travel on public transport and to spend time at transport hubs.
William Fernandez at Oxford Circus tube station
Detective Inspector Rory Wilkinson, who is leading the search, said, “Officers are exploring every possible line of enquiry to track Fernandez down and return him to prison.
“We would ask the public to assist us by being our eyes and ears and calling us if they see him or have any information about his whereabouts.”
Fernandez is white, of medium build, with thinning hair and a dark beard. He has a distinctive cross tattoo on the left hand side of his neck. When last seen, he was wearing a black tracksuit and black hat.
He is also known to use the name Agustin Fernando Jimenez Eiberte.
If you see Fernandez or know where he is, do not approach him. Call 999 immediately providing the reference 7873/24MAR.
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March 31, 2021
