Lewdness suspect returned to jail after early release


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A man accused of flashing children has been arrested again after being let out of jail early just this week.

Donald Royce Williard, who police call a serial child predator, was in jail, out of jail, and now is back in jail two days later, facing seven counts of lewdness.

Police arrested Williard on Tuesday for exposing himself to elementary children on Halloween. But just 90 minutes later, he was released. Officials say it's because the jail is too crowded and his crimes are considered non-violent.

Salt Lake City Police Chief Chris Burbank tells the Deseret News, "It's just ridiculous."

Salt Lake City prosecutor Sim Gill tells the Salt Lake Tribune the packed jail is "turning the justice system into a farce because criminals know they can get a free pass."

A Salt Lake County sheriff's spokesman says the county jail has reached "critical mass" in the past year. He says jailers frequently have to release less dangerous suspects.

He is optimistic that the county council and mayor appear committed to opening the Oxbow jail, which would potentially free up several hundred beds for inmates.

Prosecutors say Williard has a history of exposing himself to children and adults over the past year. He was booked back into jail last night and is being held on a $25,000 bail.

E-mail: aadams@ksl.com

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