Drug dealer freed by bungling warders at Durham Prison

Dec 2 2009 by Garry Willey, The Journal

Judge Bolton added the prison would have known a custodial sentence was to follow the sentencing hearing.

Winthrop, from William Street, Hebburn, has already admitted possessing cocaine and amphetamine with intent to supply.

Prosecutors made no application for an arrest warrant to return him back to custody.

Instead, lawyers from both sides are now waiting to see if he turns up to learn his fate.

“In fairness to Mr Winthrop he contacted his solicitors to say ‘they’ve released me’,” said Katherine Dunn, defending.

“Hopefully he will hand himself in. If he doesn’t a warrant could then be issued.”

Judge Bolton ordered an answer from Durham Prison be ready for the December 9 sentencing hearing.

No details of Winthrop’s drug offences were given.