Police are hunting a violent criminal after he was accidentally released early from prison in error. Rayon Newby, 20, was allowed to walk free from HMP Thameside in east London - where he was serving a prison sentence for assault, harassment and burglary.
The offender was let go "in error" on March 17, police said - but an public appeal for information was not made until today. Scotland Yard warned the public not to approach Newby and call officers immediately if he is seen.
A spokesman for the force said: "Police are appealing for help from the public to locate a wanted 20-year-old man, Rayon Newby, who is from east London. Newby was released from HMP Thameside in error on Friday, 17 March where he was serving a sentence for assault[s], harassment and burglary.
"He has links to Tower Hamlets and Ilford. Newby is a Black man, around 5ft 10ins tall, of heavy build, and a pierced left ear. He speaks with a London accent.
"The public are asked not to approach Newby. Anyone who sees him, or knows where he is should call police."
Anyone who sees Newby or knows where he is can call 101 or Tweet @MetCC quoting reference CAD 3195/30Mar or to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
