Jamie Cooper seen in multiple towns as police issue fresh image
A prisoner who escaped custody on Wednesday morning has now been sighted across Greater Manchester and the wider North West as police efforts to recapture him intensify. Jamie Cooper, 33, absconded from a GEOAmey prison van after overpowering escort officers on the M55 near Junction 2 at Catforth, Lancashire.
Cooper had faked a medical emergency, forcing the prison transport van to pull over. While staff attempted to assist him, he fought his way free and fled the scene. A video later circulated by the BBC shows Cooper sprinting through a nearby field, glancing over his shoulder as he made his escape.
He was en route to Lancaster Magistrates’ Court to face charges of assaulting a police officer and criminal damage. Cooper, who is from Blackpool, has known links to Bolton and Preston. Since Wednesday’s escape, police have received multiple reports of sightings in these areas, with the most recent confirmed sighting taking place in Blackpool in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Sightings across the North West
Lancashire Police said sightings have been reported in Bolton, Preston, and Blackpool. Officers believe Cooper may still be in the region and have issued a public warning, urging people not to approach him.
A spokesperson said: “We have a dedicated team of both uniformed officers and detectives searching for Cooper. You may see them out and about as they continue to conduct enquiries and if you have any concerns or information, please approach them.”
Public urged to help
A new image released by police shows Cooper in custody prior to the escape. He is described as 5ft 7in tall, of medium build, with cropped dark hair, and was last seen wearing a blue coat, grey top, blue jeans, and black trainers.
How he escaped custody
GEOAmey confirmed the van stopped to deal with an onboard medical emergency when Cooper made his move. The company said: “The detained person involved then overpowered and evaded the escort officers and escaped from the vehicle.”
Anyone who sees him is urged to call 999 immediately. Additional information can be shared by calling 101 and quoting log 0237 of March 19.
