Baltimore Man Awaiting Murder Trial Mistakenly Released, Officials Say

A 30-year-old Baltimore City man was reportedly released from jail while awaiting trial for a murder charge.

Rodriguez Purnell, of the 1800 block of Bentalou Street in Baltimore, was mistakenly released Friday night from the Maryland Reception, Diagnostic and Classification Center on East Madison Street, according to the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.

Purnell was awaiting trial on murder and other charges when he was released, according to the report, which was issued Monday.

The Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services said it was investigating the circumstances surrounding the inmate’s release and has notified law enforcement.

Purnell is described as 6 feet tall and 175 pounds with brown eyes.

Anyone who sees Purnell should call 911.

Photo courtesy of the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. Rodriguez Purnell’s last known address was in the Coppin Heights area off West North Avenue, authorities said.