The prime suspect in the high-profile case of Madeleine McCann's disappearance has been released from prison in Germany, where he has been serving a sentence for an unrelated offence.
Christian Brückner was driven out in a black Audi by his lawyer with a police escort shortly after 09:00 local time (07:00 GMT). Brückner wasn't visible in the car but police confirmed he had left Sehnde prison.
He had been convicted of raping a 72-year-old American woman in Portugal in 2005, and will be fitted with an ankle tag after his release from the prison near the northern city of Hanover.
The German national, 48, has never been charged with any crime in relation to the McCann case. He denies any involvement.
Local police spokesman Lars Dehnert told the BBC: We said before that we wanted this to happen as smoothly as possible, adding that Brückner would be escorted for a short distance.
One of Brückner's lawyers, Philipp Marquort, told the BBC: I think Mr Brückner is just relieved that all of the release process is over and that he is now out.
In the UK, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said Brückner remains a suspect for us and that the force's investigation into Madeleine's disappearance remains a missing person inquiry.
German prosecutors have pointed to evidence - including mobile phone data - indicating Brückner may have been in the area when Madeleine vanished, and have consistently insisted that they think he is responsible. However, they have not found strong enough evidence to bring charges.
Nevertheless, Brückner has been handed strict release terms by a regional court at the request of prosecutors who fear their suspect could flee beyond their jurisdiction. He must also contact a probation officer at least once a month and get court approval of any change of residence.
Mr Wolters recently said that the psychiatric expert assumes that due to his personality, there is a justified risk (that Brückner) will commit crimes again.
