Convicted Murderer and Inmate Recaptured After HMP Leyhill Escape

In This Article
HIGHLIGHTS
- Convicted murderer Matthew Armstrong and fellow inmate Daniel Washbourne were arrested after escaping HMP Leyhill on New Year's Day.
- Armstrong was apprehended near Henley-in-Arden railway station, while Washbourne was found in Bristol city centre.
- Armstrong faces additional charges of robbery related to an incident on December 31, involving a home invasion and theft.
- A third man, also accused of absconding, was arrested in Bristol and will appear in court in February.
- The UK government has announced a review into the security breach at HMP Leyhill, to be completed within 20 days.
In a dramatic turn of events, two inmates who absconded from HMP Leyhill, an open prison in South Gloucestershire, have been apprehended by police. Matthew Armstrong, 35, serving a life sentence for murder since 2009, and Daniel Washbourne, 40, known for previous violent offenses, were both arrested following their escape on New Year's Day.
Arrests and Charges
Armstrong was captured near Henley-in-Arden railway station at noon, after a vigilant member of the public reported his sighting. Meanwhile, Washbourne was located in Bristol city centre at 1:30 PM and was initially taken to a hospital due to pre-existing injuries before being placed in custody. Both men are now facing charges of escaping lawful custody.
Robbery Allegations
In addition to the escape charges, Armstrong is also under suspicion for a robbery that occurred on December 31. According to Avon and Somerset Police, a man forced entry into a home near Leyhill, threatening the occupants and stealing a mobile phone and cash. This incident led to Armstrong's arrest after thorough investigations, including interviews with victims and neighbors.
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Proceedings
A third individual, also accused of escaping from HMP Leyhill, was arrested in Bristol on January 3 and is scheduled to appear at Bristol Crown Court in February. The UK government has responded to these events by initiating a review of the security protocols at HMP Leyhill, with findings expected within 20 days. Alex Davies-Jones, a junior minister for the Ministry of Justice, confirmed the review in a parliamentary session, emphasizing the need for accountability and improved prison security.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The recent escape from HMP Leyhill has raised significant concerns about the security measures in place at open prisons. The upcoming review could lead to stricter protocols and increased scrutiny of inmate management to prevent future incidents. Legal proceedings against Armstrong and Washbourne will likely focus on both the escape and the alleged robbery, potentially resulting in extended sentences. As the investigation unfolds, the Ministry of Justice may face pressure to implement reforms that balance rehabilitation opportunities with public safety.
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Convicted Murderer and Inmate Recaptured After HMP Leyhill Escape

In This Article
Sofia Romano| Published HIGHLIGHTS
- Convicted murderer Matthew Armstrong and fellow inmate Daniel Washbourne were arrested after escaping HMP Leyhill on New Year's Day.
- Armstrong was apprehended near Henley-in-Arden railway station, while Washbourne was found in Bristol city centre.
- Armstrong faces additional charges of robbery related to an incident on December 31, involving a home invasion and theft.
- A third man, also accused of absconding, was arrested in Bristol and will appear in court in February.
- The UK government has announced a review into the security breach at HMP Leyhill, to be completed within 20 days.
In a dramatic turn of events, two inmates who absconded from HMP Leyhill, an open prison in South Gloucestershire, have been apprehended by police. Matthew Armstrong, 35, serving a life sentence for murder since 2009, and Daniel Washbourne, 40, known for previous violent offenses, were both arrested following their escape on New Year's Day.
Arrests and Charges
Armstrong was captured near Henley-in-Arden railway station at noon, after a vigilant member of the public reported his sighting. Meanwhile, Washbourne was located in Bristol city centre at 1:30 PM and was initially taken to a hospital due to pre-existing injuries before being placed in custody. Both men are now facing charges of escaping lawful custody.
Robbery Allegations
In addition to the escape charges, Armstrong is also under suspicion for a robbery that occurred on December 31. According to Avon and Somerset Police, a man forced entry into a home near Leyhill, threatening the occupants and stealing a mobile phone and cash. This incident led to Armstrong's arrest after thorough investigations, including interviews with victims and neighbors.
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Proceedings
A third individual, also accused of escaping from HMP Leyhill, was arrested in Bristol on January 3 and is scheduled to appear at Bristol Crown Court in February. The UK government has responded to these events by initiating a review of the security protocols at HMP Leyhill, with findings expected within 20 days. Alex Davies-Jones, a junior minister for the Ministry of Justice, confirmed the review in a parliamentary session, emphasizing the need for accountability and improved prison security.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The recent escape from HMP Leyhill has raised significant concerns about the security measures in place at open prisons. The upcoming review could lead to stricter protocols and increased scrutiny of inmate management to prevent future incidents. Legal proceedings against Armstrong and Washbourne will likely focus on both the escape and the alleged robbery, potentially resulting in extended sentences. As the investigation unfolds, the Ministry of Justice may face pressure to implement reforms that balance rehabilitation opportunities with public safety.
Images from the Web

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