Wealthy rapist goes on the run

A WEALTHY convicted rapist wanted in France is on the run in Britain after a judge bailed him to live at a £22million London flat.

- Jon Austin

Italian oil and gas tycoon Luigi Forino, 47, who has family and business ties in the UK, has been at large since December 8 when he failed to attend an extradition hearing at Westminster magistrates' court.

He was conditionally bailed after a £20,000 surety was paid. The cash was forfeited January 29. 

It is understood the Crown Prosecution Service, representing France, opposed bail, but did not appeal the decision.

Bail conditions included an electronically monitored curfew at a luxury Mayfair apartment between 11pm and 5am, surrendering his passport and weekly reporting to police.