Madeleine McCann’s parents were dealt a devastating blow today as prime suspect Christian Brueckner was released from prison.

The convicted paedophile is a free man after his seven-year jail term for raping a pensioner came to an end. Prosecutors had hoped to charge the 48-year-old over Madeleine’s disappearance before his sentence ended. But they failed in their race against the clock and were powerless to stop him walking free.

Brueckner, who has shown 'no remorse for his crimes' , was released from Sehnde prison near Hannover at 9.15am this morning. He is understood to have been fitted with an ankle tag so police can monitor his whereabouts 24/7. Sources said he also had his passport confiscated amid fears he could disappear.

He appeared to have a bag or blanket over his head

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