Rapist Bernadin Dedic mistakenly freed from Wormwood Scrubs

Bernadin Dedic, aged 48, was mistakenly freed from HMP Wormwood Scrubs on February 6. A court official incorrectly noted that Dedic had been granted bail after mixing up digital case files. This error resulted in a bail notice being sent to the prison, authorising his release.

Within hours of his release, Dedic departed the UK for Bosnia using his Bosnian passport. His UK passport had been confiscated by the Metropolitan Police as part of the ongoing investigation. A jury at Isleworth Crown Court found Dedic guilty of nine charges on September 15, with the verdict delivered in his absence.

The Original Charges

Dedic was apprehended last year and faced charges including four counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault by penetration, engaging in sexual activity without consent, threatening a person with a knife in a private place, and making a threat to kill. The court heard the attack occurred at his west London home after he separated from his partner.

The prosecution detailed how Dedic lured the woman to his basement after she rejected his sexual advances. He produced a kitchen knife, threatening her and stating she would not be heard if she screamed. The court was told he used the knife to remove her clothing before carrying out a series of assaults that lasted for several hours. The victim was described as being terrified and compliant.

Court Proceedings and Absences

Dedic was represented by a barrister during court hearings he did not attend. Initially, he claimed he wished to return for trial but faced difficulties obtaining a visa. Later, he stated he could not travel due to a knee injury from a skiing accident. The trial was postponed from March to June to allow for his recovery. When June arrived, he again failed to appear, citing a heart attack in Sarajevo. He was ultimately unrepresented as he had not paid his legal team.

Systemic Review and Future Measures

An investigation is currently underway to determine how the error occurred and to identify measures to prevent future occurrences. A spokesperson for HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) stated that additional independent checks are being introduced into the court system. 'We fully understand the distress these types of errors will cause and action has already been taken to address errors made in this case,' the spokesperson said. 'Our focus now is working closely with the police and CPS to return this offender to custody so they can face justice.'