Mr. Benedict Bates, convicted of conspiracy to murder those he deemed 'impure' in June of 1883, was released from Azkaban and is now reportedly living in the Slums of Hogsmeade.

Mr. Bates, a former auror, was fired from the position in early 1883 for verbally accosting Mrs. Ruth Lockhart for being a halfblood. Months later, Mr. Bates was arrested for his involvement in the murderous plans of Mr. Alexander Henderson. The Department of Magical Law Enforcement could not turn up enough evidence to convict Mr. Bates for anything more than conspiracy - while some suspected more, only conspiracy was certain - and he was sentenced to five years in Azkaban accordingly.

Now, Mr. Bates is among us again. He is living in the Slums of Hogsmeade - among some of society's most vulnerable - and while Mr. Bates' Azkaban arrest ensures that he is legally banned from owning a wand, what's to stop him from purchasing or stealing one later on?

Bates has been spotted speaking to Mr. Conri Power, former Ministerial candidate, and Miss Mireille Lecuyer in Padmore Park. Reporters were not able to confirm whether or not either individual recognized him. The Department of Magical Law Enforcement would not confirm whether or not they were tailing Mr. Bates.

For readers who want to be aware of Mr. Bates' looks, in case they run into him: he stands at 5'10", is not muscular, and has mid-length dark brown hair. He owns no wand, but does possess a cane with the head shaped like a gargoyle. Since his release, Mr. Bates has been wearing the same tattered suit.

Halfbloods and muggleborns are advised to be cautious around him, and ready to defend themselves if necessary.