Christian Brueckner Spotted Partying Days After Prison Release

Christian Brueckner, the prime suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, was seen celebrating at a nightclub less than 48 hours after his release from prison. The 49-year-old’s public outing has raised concerns among residents as he attempts to adjust to life outside of incarceration.

Witnesses reported that Brueckner attended a lively disco in a town near Hamburg. His presence became widely known after he entered a local shop, where women recognized him and reportedly screamed in fear. According to sources, Brueckner responded by pulling up his trousers to show his electronic ankle tag and insisting, “I’m innocent, I’m innocent.” A source remarked, “No one in this town wants him here; it’s just creating a problem for everybody.”

Brueckner previously lived in a dilapidated farmhouse on the outskirts of Praia da Luz, where he was present when McCann disappeared from the Ocean Club resort in May 2007. Following his release, he has been moved to emergency accommodation provided by the German state. Initially declared homeless, he was placed in a hostel before being transferred due to safety concerns.

On Wednesday, Brueckner was seen being transported from Sehnde prison near Hanover, where he had been serving a sentence. Shortly after his release, he was spotted at a local McDonald’s next to a shop selling baby and toddler items. As part of his release conditions, he is required to wear an electronic tag for five years. Breaching any bail terms, including failing to inform probation officers of his movements, could result in his return to prison.

Despite extensive investigations, authorities have not charged Brueckner in connection with McCann’s case, which he vehemently denies. In October 2022, he was acquitted of various sexual offences alleged to have occurred in Portugal. However, prosecutors are currently awaiting the outcome of an appeal regarding these judgments, which was filed in Germany’s Federal Court of Justice.

Brueckner is also scheduled to appear in court next month in Oldenburg to face charges of insulting a prison guard, which could lead to a fine. His solicitor, Philipp Marquort, has called for Brueckner to be left in peace, stating, “Mr. Brueckner has served his sentence and is now a free man. He deserves to live without being disturbed or hounded.”

Marquort emphasized that there is no evidence linking Brueckner to the McCann case, despite claims from prosecutors about the inability to find exonerating evidence. He reiterated that Brueckner’s release should be respected and warned that legal action could be taken against anyone attempting to pursue him against his will.