Lincolnshire Police are urgently appealing for information to locate a convicted sex offender who has absconded from HMP North Sea Camp near Boston.
James Hands, 38, from Nottingham, was reported missing from the open prison during the early hours of today, Tuesday 1 September.
Police say Hands is currently serving a prison sentence in relation to stalking and harassment and have warned that he poses a risk of causing harm to the community.
Officers believe he absconded from North Sea Camp at some point during the night of Monday 31 August.
Hands has several distinctive tattoos which may help members of the public identify him. These include a tattoo of the letters “JD” on his neck, “MM” on his right hand, “Shae” on his left hand and a dog tattoo on the back of his leg.
Detective Chief Inspector Jesee Karanga said: “We are urgently seeking the help of the public to find 38-year-old James Hands, who absconded from North Sea Camp at some point last night (31 August). This man is a convicted sex offender who poses a risk of causing harm to the community.
“While he has absconded from Boston, he could be anywhere in the county, and we would encourage people to remain vigilant. We are deploying the necessary resources to locate and apprehend Hands.
“If you see him, please do not approach him, but instead report it to us by calling 999.”
Anyone who sees Hands, or believes they know his current whereabouts, is urged not to approach him and to contact Lincolnshire Police immediately by calling 999.
