A probe is underway into reports that Michael McLean was able to leave his high security prison on several occasions while he awaited trial.

The revelation came during his sentencing today (Apl 12) for the murders of six members of a St. Thomas family in February 2006.

He is to spend 48 years behind bars before being eligible for parole.

McLean has claimed that during his 12 year incarceration he was taken to several guest houses on 19 occasions to rendezvous with women.

Director of Public Prosecution Paula Llewellyn says the police are trying to determine if there is any truth to the claims.

Justice Bertram Morrison, in handing down sentence, also blasted prison authorities.

Morrison revealed that during the trial he took note of McLean’s deportment, including the accessories he wore to court and called on the authorities to act expeditiously to cauterise the situation.