Vancouver Island inmate released in case of mistaken identity
Grant Christopher Barker, 30, left the Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre on Sunday
A case of mistaken identity has lead to the accidental release of an inmate on Vancouver Island, say Saanich police.
Grant Christopher Barker, 30, left the Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre on Sunday, but police now say another man was due to be released instead. Barker is still on the loose.
Barker, a Victoria man, was being detained while awaiting trial on numerous charges related to a domestic matter and a break-and-enter, and was due to appear in court on Sept. 10.
On Monday, he was charged with escape from lawful custody and identity fraud, and a warrant issued for his arrest.
Saanich Police do not believe there is any imminent risk to the public as a result of Barker's escape and say the circumstances surrounding Barker's release are under investigation by their department and B.C. Corrections.
Barker is described as First Nations, five feet six inches tall, weighing approximately 180 pounds. He has black hair and some facial hair.
He was last seen wearing a black zip-up hooded sweater, black shorts and white and black running shoes.
Anyone who sees Barker or has any information about his whereabouts is asked to call Saanich police at at 250 475-4321, or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at solvecrime.ca.