Dangerous Offender Who Walked Out of Jail by Mistake on the Run in West London
Sex Offender Released in Blunder
William Fernandez, 24, was locked up on remand awaiting trial for sexual assault by touching, indecent exposure, and possession of a class B drug. Arrested and charged back in April 2020, Fernandez was not meant to be freed—but on the evening of Wednesday 24 March, staff at HMP Wormwood Scrubs accidentally let him walk free.
On the Loose After Escaping Custody
Met officers were quickly dispatched to search the prison and nearby areas. CCTV caught Fernandez on the move shortly after release. At 9.24pm, he was seen strolling along Wealdstone High Street, heading north. Since then, he has vanished without a trace.
Warning to Public as Police Hunt Fugitive
Detective Inspector Rory Wilkinson, leading the manhunt, 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.”
What You Need to Know
- Fernandez is white, medium build, with thinning hair and a dark beard
- Recognisable by a cross tattoo on the left side of his neck
- Last seen wearing a black tracksuit and black hat
- Known to use the alias Agustin Fernando Jimenez Eiberte
- Likely still in west London, known to travel on public transport
If you spot Fernandez, do NOT approach him. Call 999 immediately quoting reference 7873/24MAR.
