Police appeal for help in finding convicted sex offender reported to have absconded from HMP North Sea Camp near Boston

Lincolnshire Police says there is a possibility that James Hands, 38, may have changed his appearance, such as shaving his face and or head.

It is also believed that he may have travelled to the Nottingham area, it added.

ORIGINAL STORY:

Police are appealing for help in finding a convicted sex offender who is said to have absconded from HMP North Sea Camp near Boston.

James Hands, 38, who is from Nottingham, was reported missing from the open prison during the early hours of today (Tuesday, September 1), Lincolnshire Police say.

Hands is a convicted sex offender and is currently serving a sentence in relation to stalking and harassment, it adds.

He has a number of tattoos, police say: a JD on his neck, an MM on his right hand, a ‘Shae’ on his left hand, and a dog on the back of his leg.

Det Chief Insp 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 (August 31).

“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 is to us by calling 999.”