Remand prisoner freed by mistake

The prison opened in November 1997

An investigation has been launched at the privately-run Parc Prison at Bridgend after an alleged mugger was freed by mistake before trial.

Martin Burnell, 20, from St Mellons in Cardiff, was on remand in connection with seven city street robberies.

He is alleged to have robbed teenage boys and young women of mobile phones and cash in a week-long crime spree.

Prison officials said he was released from custody "in error". A judge has issued a warrant for his arrest.

Martin Burnell was released on 4 July after spending 10 weeks on remand.

But the mistake was only spotted when his case came up at Cardiff Crown Court on Monday.

Police were informed and we have been working closely with them to ensure the apprehension of the prisoner Parc Prison spokesman

Mr Burnell was due to answer charges of robbery, attempted robbery and handling stolen goods.

He is accused of staging the muggings with a 19-year-old accomplice who was remanded in custody at the same time but not freed.

Judge Christopher Llewellyn-Jones QC issued a warrant for his arrest and adjourned the case for three weeks, saying he hoped Mr Burnell is "brought back to face justice".

Forearm scar

A spokesman for the prison, which is run by security company Securicor and has a capacity for 1,036 inmates, said: "A 20-year-old man was released in error from custody.

"Police were informed and we have been working closely with them to ensure the apprehension of the prisoner."

Mr Burnell is described as white, of medium build with black, cropped hair and a stubbled face.

He has an inch-long scar on his right forearm.

Detective Inspector Peter Thomas, of South Wales Police, said: "I can confirm Martin Burnell failed to appear in crown court to answer charges against him.

"We are appealing for him to give himself up and for any information on his whereabouts."