Peston: Why wasn’t Kaddour-Cherif deported?

Brahim Kaddour-Cherif, an Algerian sex offender mistakenly released from HMP Wandsworth, had overstayed his visa. This case highlights issues in the interaction between visa regulations and the criminal justice system, raising concerns among MPs.

Official Explanation for Non-Deportation

According to official sources, Kaddour-Cherif was not deported because criminal proceedings against him were still ongoing. The government does not deport individuals while they face active criminal cases unless there is coordination between the police and Crown Prosecution Service.

“The government does not remove or deport people while criminal proceedings are ongoing, unless there is agreement with the police and Crown Prosecution Service.”

Deportation Thresholds and Proceedings

None of Kaddour-Cherif’s sentences met the requirement for automatic deportation, which calls for a custodial sentence of 12 months or longer. However, early deportation steps—known as stage one notification—were initiated earlier this year because his repeated offenses were deemed harmful to public safety.

In November 2024, he was convicted of indecent exposure.
He received an 18-month community order.
He was registered on the sex offenders list.

“His repeat offending history was seen as contrary to the public good.”

Despite overstaying his visa, these factors complicated the deportation process.

Summary

The refusal to deport Kaddour-Cherif stemmed from ongoing legal proceedings and failing to meet automatic deportation criteria, revealing complex challenges in managing foreign offenders within UK law enforcement and immigration policy.

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ITVX — 2025-11-06