UK: Convicted murderer and ex-royal aide won’t face charges for escaping from prison

UK: Ex-royal aide avoids charges for prison escape

LONDON — Authorities say a convicted murderer who once served as the personal assistant to the duchess of York will not face charges for escaping from a British prison.

Jane Andrews triggered a large-scale police search in November when she walked out of the minimum security prison in southeast England where she had been held.

The 43-year-old former aide was found two days later in nearby hotel and was charged with escaping lawful custody. She has since been held at another prison.

The Crown Prosecution Service said Friday it was dropping the charge after considering psychiatric reports on Andrews.

Andrews was jailed for life in 2002 after a jury found her guilty of killing her millionaire partner. She had previously worked for the duchess, Sarah Ferguson.