Procedure Change Addresses Release

The Public Prosecution Service has adjusted internal administrative procedures to ensure an oversight that resulted in a man being released from custody after having been denied bail does not recur.

An internal review revealed a communications oversight at the Sydney office of the Public Prosecution Service resulted in Douglas Edward Young, charged with sexual assault and failure to comply with conditions and breach of probation, being released from custody after having been denied bail.

Mr. Young had been denied bail on Sept. 21, primarily because of his failure to attend court in the past. However, after serving sentence on an unrelated matter, he was released from custody Jan. 11, before a scheduled court appearance Jan. 14.

Mr. Young turned himself in on Jan. 16 and appeared in court Thursday, Jan. 17. He is scheduled to go to trial Feb. 15 and will remain in custody until then.