Convicted murderer arrested in Irvine after absconding from Lancashire prison

A convicted murderer has been arrested by officers from Cheshire Constabulary after absconding from prison.

Paul Gerrard was sentenced to life in prison in 2009 for the murder of David Argent in Runcorn.

The 40-year-old absconded from HMP Kirkham, Lancashire, in December 2022.

Following enquiries, officers from Cheshire’s Serious and Organised Crime Unit located the fugitive in Irvine, Scotland, on Tuesday 17 January.

Gerrard has now been taken to custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Murray, of Cheshire Constabulary’s Serious and Organised Crime Unit, said: “Gerrard is a dangerous individual and I welcome the fact that the is now back behind bars where he belongs.

“I’d like to thank all of the officers involved in this manhunt for their dedication, going well beyond the boundaries of Cheshire to keep our communities safe.”