Inmate flees prison van on M55
A prisoner has escaped custody after faking a medical emergency in a prison van on the M55 motorway in Lancashire. Jamie Cooper, 33, was being taken to Lancaster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday morning when he forced his way out of the GEOAmey vehicle and fled near Junction 2, close to Catforth.
Escape during emergency stop
GEOAmey, the private company responsible for transporting prisoners, said the van was forced to pull over at 8:54am to deal with what appeared to be a medical emergency involving Cooper. During the stop, he overpowered escort officers and escaped. Police were immediately alerted and have since launched a manhunt.
Description and charges
Cooper, originally from Blackpool, is described as 5ft 7in tall, of medium build with short, cropped hair. At the time of his escape, he was wearing a blue coat, blue jeans and black trainers. He was due in court to face charges of assaulting a police officer and criminal damage. Lancashire Police have warned the public not to approach him and to call 999 if he is seen.
Ongoing investigation
A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: “We need your help finding wanted Jamie Cooper, after he absconded from a GEOAmey prison van on the M55 this morning. Incidents like these are extremely rare in Lancashire and it is something we are taking incredibly seriously.”
The force confirmed that officers are actively searching for Cooper, with an increased police presence in the area. Cooper has known links to Blackpool and Bolton. Anyone with information is urged to call 101, quoting log 0237 of 19th March.
Police added: “Searches and an investigation are ongoing. If you have any concerns, please approach officers in the area or call us directly.”
