A man who celebrated his freedom under the Government’s early release scheme is back behind bars just five months later after assaulting four police officers.
From Cheers to Chains: Early Release Ends in Disaster
Ross Heathorn, 47, from Curtismill Close, Orpington, was freed early from HMP Wandsworth in September 2024. He had been serving time for breaching probation. At the time, he backed the Government’s move to release prisoners early, telling reporters, “I feel good. I feel free. It’s a bit bad in there with how the officers treat you, but I guess it’s just overcrowded.”
He even praised the policy, saying,
“They’re doing something instantly… every action has a reaction with ripples further down the line. I think it’s a good idea.”
He ended by looking forward to a meal at McDonald’s.
Freedom Cut Short After Violent Assault
But Heathorn’s taste of freedom didn’t last long. Last Monday (January 27, 2025), at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court, he pleaded guilty to assaulting four police officers. Two of the attacks were racially aggravated.
The court handed him a 16-week jail sentence, sending him straight back to prison.
Repeat Offender Raises Early Release Doubts
Heathorn’s return to custody has sparked fresh concerns about the early release scheme’s effectiveness, especially for offenders with a known history of reoffending.
So far, authorities have remained tight-lipped on whether they’ll introduce tougher measures to stop similar incidents.
This case has reignited fierce debate over the Government’s early release policy. Critics warn it could be paving the way for repeat offences and putting the public at risk.
