Man escapes from prison van on way to court near Preston

19 March 2025 , 19:58

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Man escapes from prison van on way to court near Preston

Jamie Cooper, 33, absconded from vehicle near Catforth, Preston, on way to Lancaster magistrates court

A man escaped from a prison van on a motorway on the way to court on Wednesday, police said.

Jamie Cooper, 33, absconded from the vehicle, which was carrying prisoners to Lancaster magistrates court, on the M55 near junction two by Catforth, Preston, Lancashire police said. 

Police received a report of the escape at about 8.54am on Wednesday, the force said. Cooper is described as 5ft 7in tall (1.7 metres), of medium build with short, cropped receding hair, and is thought to be wearing a blue coat, blue jeans and black trainers.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Lancashire police said: “We know that this may be concerning to hear about, but we want to reassure you that incidents like these are extremely rare in Lancashire and it is something we are taking incredibly seriously.

“Searches and an investigation are ongoing, and you will see an increase in our officers in the area as they continue their inquiries. If you have any concerns, please do approach them as they are out and about.”

Cooper has links to Blackpool and Bolton, the force added.

Police said anyone who saw Cooper should not approach him but should call 999 immediately. Anyone with information can call 101 quoting log 0237 of 19 March.

James Turner