Jail Detainee Released From Custody By Mistake In Westchester

VALHALLA, NY — A man awaiting trial in New York City was set free by mistake last week in Westchester County. Tommy Cruz, 18, of New York City, was back in custody the next morning, having been picked up by police.

Cruz was appearing in Westchester County Court and was supposed to be transferred back to the custody of New York City's correction department afterward, the Journal News reported.

He was sentenced in court to time served on a couple of charges and was released later that evening, according to Fios1 News.

The mistake was realized when the city called the county looking for Cruz, who is facing a felony robbery charge in the city.

County Correction Commissioner Joseph Spano said the mistake was unacceptable and retraining and other appropriate action will be undertaken.

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