Police trying to trace wanted man, who escaped from prison van on M55

Lancashire Police are asking for the public's help in tracing an escaped prisoner, who absconded from a GEOAmey prison van on the M55 (19 March).

At 8:54am yesterday, Police received a report of a man absconding from the vehicle conveying prisoners to Lancaster Magistrates Court.

This was reported to have happened on the M55, near to junction 2, near to Catforth.

The man has been identified as 33-year-old Jamie Cooper, from Blackpool, and the force are now appealing for your help to trace him.

Cooper is 5ft 7in, of a medium build with short, cropped hair and is thought to be wearing a blue coat, blue jeans and black trainers.

The Police say they know this may be concerning to hear about, but they want to reassure you that incidents like these are extremely rare in Lancashire and it is something they are taking incredibly seriously.

Searches and an investigation are ongoing, and you will see an increase in officers in the area as they continue their enquiries. If you have any concerns, please do approach them as they are out and about.

Cooper has links to Blackpool and Bolton.

If you see Cooper, do not approach him, but call 999 and let the Police know straight away.

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