Bernadin Dedic

Bernadin Dedic, 48, has been the subject of significant criminal proceedings in the UK, involving charges of rape and sexual assault, an accidental release from prison, and his subsequent flight from the country.

Key Facts and Timeline:

• September (previous year): Dedic was arrested on suspicion of rape and remanded in custody.
• February (current year): While awaiting trial, Dedic was accidentally released from HMP Wormwood Scrubs due to an administrative error. An official at Isleworth Crown Court mistakenly recorded that he had been granted bail following a hearing on February 6. Dedic claims he informed prison staff of the mistake but was "pushed out."
• Within hours of release: Dedic boarded a Eurostar train and fled the UK to his native Bosnia, using his Bosnian passport despite his UK passport being seized during the investigation.
• March (current year): Dedic failed to return for his scheduled trial, initially citing visa difficulties.
• June (current year): The trial proceeded in his absence at Isleworth Crown Court. Dedic provided various excuses for his absence, including a skiing injury and chest pains.
• June (current year): Jurors found Dedic guilty of nine counts, including four counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault by penetration, causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent, threatening a person with a knife in a private place, and making threats to kill. The court heard that Dedic had consumed red wine and cocaine before attacking the victim at knifepoint in his west London home.
• July 8, 2026: Judge Hannah Duncan ordered Dedic to return to the UK for sentencing, which is scheduled for July 24, 2026. She rejected his explanations for absence, stating she was "far from convinced" by claims of a heart attack and viewing his actions as an attempt to "obstruct, manipulate and avoid justice."

UK authorities are expected to initiate extradition proceedings to bring Dedic back for sentencing. Public court records for "DEDIC Bernadin" at Isleworth Crown Court also list case reference 01XB1323825 with hearing dates in June 2026.