Ex Iron Maiden Singer Paul Di'Anno Gets Early Prison Release

Back in February Di’Anno was charged with fraudulently claiming £45,000 ($73,200) in incapacity benefits, insisting that nerve damage in his back prevented him from working.

These charges came to light after the Department of Work and Pensions received an anonymous tip-off. The tip revealed that Di’Anno had been performing as recently as 2006, despite making his claim in 2002.

In March the singer admitted to 8 counts of benefit fraud but pleaded that it was necessary to support his family as his performing provided little income.

During his sentencing Jane Miller QC stated;

“Your greed has cost this country a lot of money. The claims were for a long time and for a large cost."

She did, however, commend Di’Anno for admitting his guilt;

"It must be a custodial sentence. I do not accept you only got expenses. I give you credit for your guilty pleas and reduce the sentence from the guideline 12 months to that of nine months."

After his release Di’Anno expressed his relief through a message to Metalunderground.com;

"Back home again, and looking forward to Running Free Again, and seeing you all in a few weeks. Thanks for all the Birthday wishes too. Also, relieved to say, I managed not to drop the soap!”

“Running Free Again” is a nod to the singers upcoming headline tour of the same name. Di’anno left Iron Maiden in 1981 and was replaced by Bruce Dickenson. The singer worked on the bands first 2 albums; “Iron Maiden” and “Killers”. He still performs Iron Maiden material during his live performances.