Public Confidence 'Damaged' by On-the-Run Killer Case, Says Long
BBC News NI reports on the impact of the Gary Anderson case on public confidence in Northern Ireland's justice system.
Justice Minister Naomi Long's Statement
Naomi Long, Justice Minister, has expressed concern that the circumstances surrounding Gary Anderson's temporary release from prison have damaged public trust:
"Public confidence in the justice system has been 'damaged' by the circumstances surrounding the temporary release from prison of convicted murderer Gary Anderson."
The Case Overview
Gary Anderson, one of two brothers jailed for life in 2023 for the 2018 murder of Karol Kelly, absconded while attending his father's funeral last Monday. He was granted a compassionate temporary release (CTR) from Maghaberry Prison to attend the funeral, but subsequently went missing.
Long's Actions and Review
Long is ordering an independent review into Anderson's release, which followed a court judgment that overturned the prison service's initial refusal of his request. She will also meet with Karol Kelly's family.
Key Issues and Findings
- The judge who granted Anderson's CTR found that the original decision was based on inaccurate information regarding his risk assessment.
- The duty governor at Maghaberry Prison misrepresented Anderson's risk level, which led to an incorrect score being used in the decision-making process.
- The judge invited the duty governor to reconsider, but this offer was declined, finding the decision not to review it "somewhat surprising."