Was unaccompanied

Double murderer escapes from prison in Berlin

A 50-year-old double murderer has escaped from prison in Berlin. He was released unaccompanied for the first time and did not return to the prison. Previously, an expert opinion had shown that release was possible.

A nationwide search is now underway for the murderer, who should have returned to Tegel prison by 5 p.m. on Thursday from his authorized exit. According to a spokesman for the Senate Justice Administration, the man has been allowed to leave the prison repeatedly since 2005, but never unaccompanied.

A forensic psychiatric report had been drawn up before the last exit. This had shown that relaxation was justifiable. The staff had also strictly adhered to all regulations and precautions. There were no indications that the criminal would not be able to return.

In custody for almost three decades
The fugitive has been in custody for 27 years - the murders took place back in 1995. Jan Kleinheinrich, spokesperson for Berlin's Senator for Justice Felor Badenberg (CDU), said that there had been no complaints about previous exits. "We know where he was. But he was not found there."

The police are now searching nationwide for the 50-year-old.