Inmate disguised as cellmate ‘improperly released’ from prison in London, Ont.

TORONTO — London police say an inmate allegedly altered his appearance to look like his cellmate and was “improperly released” from the Elgin-Middlesex Detention Centre on Wednesday.

Police said the inmate altered his appearance to look like his cellmate, who was about to be released from custody.

They say he threatened the cellmate to be quiet when the Correction Officer came for him, then identified himself as the cellmate when the Correctional Officers arrived.

READ MORE: N.Y. inmate spent months exploring tunnels under prison before escape: report

The inmate was then allegedly released under the cellmate’s name. Police say they were contacted immediately once the offences were identified.

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Arrest warrants have now been issued for Justin Kunz, 19, of London, for personation, uttering threats, and being unlawfully-at-large.

“The improper release of any inmate from a correctional facility is unacceptable and the ministry takes its responsibilities in this area very seriously,” said Brent Ross a spokesman for the Ontario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services.

“Contrary to reports, the inmate did not escape from the Elgin-Middlesex Detention Centre, and to date no one has ever escaped on their own or with the help of others, from the EMDC. The ministry is conducting an internal investigation to determine not only what caused the improper release, but also to determine if any actions are required to ensure it does not happen again.”

Share this on X Click to share quote on X: "Contrary to reports, the inmate did not escape from the Elgin-Middlesex Detention Centre, and to date no one has ever escaped on their own or with the help of others, from the EMDC. The ministry is conducting an internal investigation to determine not only what caused the improper release, but also to determine if any actions are required to ensure it does not happen again."

Ross said the Ministry is working with the London Police Service to return the offender to custody.

Kunz had been in custody and is before the Courts for numerous offences including possession of firearms, failing to comply with court orders, uttering threats and mischief.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to call the London Police Service at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent in on-line anonymously to http://www.londoncrimestoppers.com. Any inquiries in relation to this matter can be directed to the spokesperson for the Ministry at (416)314-7024.