Shocking moment escaped inmate runs across fields after faking emergency & fleeing prison van by ‘overpowering’ officers
THIS is the shocking moment an inmate was seen fleeing prison, sprinting across fields to freedom.
The footage shows a lag, who is believed to be escaped prisoner Jamie Cooper, dashing through fenced fields after escaping from a prison van yesterday.
He’s seen wearing dark trousers, and a dark jacket over a white T-shirt as he turns multiple times to look over his shoulder.
Following a path next to a grassy field the lag runs away from the camera which shows lines of trees in the distance.
The 33-year old was said to have “evaded” escort officers as he escaped from a prison van yesterday morning.
Security firm GEOAmey said he had “overpowered” staff escorting him to a court appearance after faking an “on-board medical emergency”.
A spokesperson for GEOAmey said: “The detained person involved in this emergency then overpowered and evaded the escort officers and escaped from the vehicle.
“Lancashire Police have been informed and are currently searching for the escaped prisoner.”
Cops said the van was forced to pull over just before 9am on Wednesday before Cooper fought his way out of the van onto the M55 near junction two in Catforth, Preston.
The vehicle was moving prisoners to Lancaster Magistrates Court and was near Catforth at the time of the when Cooper made his escape.
Police have since urged anyone with information of the whereabouts of the fleeing lag to come forward.
Members of the public have been warned to not approach Jamie Cooper from Blackpool who is 5ft 7in, of a medium build with short, cropped hair.
He had been due to appear at Lancaster Magistrates’ Court to face charges of assaulting a police officer and criminal damage.
A spokesperson for the force 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 enquiries. If you have any concerns, please do approach them as they are out and about.
“Cooper has links to Blackpool and Bolton
“If you see Cooper, do not approach him, but call 999 and let us know straight away.
“If you can assist our enquiries in any way, please get in contact with us on 101 quoting log 0237 of 19th March.”