COLIN HOGBEN AND HIS SHOCKING ESCAPE IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE
A convicted sex offender who was granted a day release from prison and subsequently failed to return has been found in Kendal, raising serious concerns about prisoner management and public safety in the Gloucestershire area.Colin Hogben, aged 73, was serving his sentence at HMP Leyhill, a prison situated near Bristol in South Gloucestershire.
On June 23, he was permitted to leave the facility under supervised day release provisions, a common practice intended to aid with rehabilitation and integration into society.
However, Hogben did not return to prison as scheduled, prompting immediate response from law enforcement authorities.
The police in Avon and Somerset launched an urgent manhunt, issuing appeals to the public to assist in locating the suspect.
Authorities warned the community not to attempt to approach Hogben directly and urged anyone with relevant information to contact emergency services immediately by calling 999.
Officials also emphasized the importance of providing precise details to aid the search.
Further investigation revealed that Hogben was discovered in Kendal, a town located more than 200 miles away from the prison in South Gloucestershire.
This significant distance indicated that Hogben managed to evade authorities for some time before being apprehended.
On June 25, two days after he was reported missing, police officers detained Hogben in Kendal.
Law enforcement officials stated that Hogben possessed a bus pass and had access to funds at the time of his escape, characteristics that possibly facilitated his flight from the area.
His prior conviction made his disappearance particularly alarming; he had been convicted of rape in 1994.
To inform the public about his identity, police reiterated that Hogben was a significant risk, citing his criminal history.
A police spokesperson conveyed a warning to the community: ‘He was convicted of rape in 1994.
If you know where he is now, call 999 immediately and give the reference 5222149339.
Don’t approach him.
If you have any other information that could help to find him, ring 101 with the same reference.’ Following his capture, Hogben was taken into custody and brought before magistrates at Barrow.
He admitted to remaining unlawfully at large beyond his authorized period of temporary release, a breach of his release conditions.
His case is scheduled for sentencing at Carlisle Crown Court on July 29, where authorities will determine the consequences of his actions and subsequent violations.
