Convicted rapist Christian Brueckner is eligible for escorted leave from prison as he nears the end of his sentence. But German guards are refusing be seen in public with him
Madeleine McCann suspect Christian Brueckner is not allowed out of jail on day release – because guards refuse to be seen with him. The paedophile, who cops believe killed the British youngster in 2007, is due to be freed from prison in his native Germany in September.
Inmates nearing the end of their sentences are usually allowed escorted trips into the community to help them reintegrate into society. But 48-year-old Brueckner’s notoriety has apparently scuppered his plans.
A source close to the German, who is serving a seven-year sentence for rape, told this paper: “It is usual in Germany for prisoners coming up for release to be allowed out for a day or even a weekend.
“In Brueckner’s case, it would be with a couple of officers present rather than just one. They would normally take him shopping and things like that.
“But they won’t be doing it – prison staff don’t want to be seen with him. There is a good chance he’d be recognised by people and they would be associated with him as a result.
“Guards can’t stand him because of the crimes he committed, not to mention his supposed involvement in Madeleine’s disappearance.”
Madeleine, who would now be 21, vanished while on holiday in Praia da Luz, Portugal, with her parents when she was three. Brueckner, who was living in a farmhouse nearby, was named as the prime suspect in 2020.
He has not been charged in connection with Madeleine and has denied any involvement. Police in three countries are racing to find evidence to charge him before he is freed.
Parents Kate and Gerry McCann, from Rothley, Leicester, say they will never give up hope of being reunited with Madeleine.
