News Releases

Prairies Region

News Release

Communiqué

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

EDMONTON, AB, May 10, 2004 - At noon today, a minimum security inmate could not be found at the Grierson Centre. A search of the building, surrounding complex and grounds was made but did not locate the inmate. Police were notified. The inmate was last seen at the Centre at this morning's 8 a.m. count.

The missing inmate is Edward Hartford, 27 years old, serving a two year sentence for break and enter and other property offences. His sentence commenced on July 15, 2003 and was due to expire on July 15, 2005. His statutory release date was November 13, 2004. He is 177 cm tall (five feet, 10 inches), weighs 66 kilograms (145 pounds) and has a fair complexion with brown eyes. He had a shaved head at the time of the escape.

Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Hartford is asked to contact police.

The Grierson Centre is a minimum security institution that accommodates 30 inmates. Grierson Centre is part of the Grierson Complex located at 9530 101 Avenue in downtown Edmonton.

Minimum security inmates are those who are rated as low escape risks, low risks to public safety in the event of an escape and have been progressing well with their correctional plans.

This is the first escape from the Centre this fiscal year (since April 1/04). Last year there were two (April 1/03 to March 31/04).

The Correctional Service of Canada will be conducting a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding this escape.

- 30 -

For more information, media representatives may contact:

Frank Winkfein
Director
(780) 495-4803