A wizard and member of The Lords' Alliance, Iarno Albrek was tasked by his superiors to establish a constabulary in Phandalin. Instead, he assembled a group of outlaws and set himself up as leader of the Redbrands. Albrek adopted the alias "Glasstaff" and made contact with the Black Spider, offering his help and loyalty in exchange for a share of the secrets and wealth from Wave Echo Cave.
When questioned, townsfolk reported that Albrek disappeared while exploring Tresendar Manor about 2 months ago. Sildar Hallwinter tasked the party with finding his friend in exchange for a reward (Redbrand Ruffians).
The party discovered Albrek in the Redbrands' hideout beneath Tresendar Manor, and managed to capture him alive after an intense battle. The wizard was locked in a cell in the basement of the townmaster's hall, awaiting transport back to Neverwinter to answer for his crimes.
Upon their return to Phandalin after taking care of some business in the surrounding area, the party discovered that Albrek had been broken out of jail. Sildar's investigation concluded that Albrek was smuggled out of town by Halia Thornton, who was revealed to be a spy working for the Zhentarim. Halia murdered Harbin Wester during the jailbreak for reasons unknown.