UK Police Hunt Inmate Who Failed to Return to Open Prison After Approved Visit

UK authorities have launched a manhunt for a prisoner who failed to return to HMP Castle Huntly, an open prison near Dundee, after an approved visit.

The inmate, identified as 36-year-old James Fitzpatrick, was reported missing on Tuesday, December 30, after he did not return to the facility as required. Police said he was last seen at about 11:20 a.m. on Monday, December 29, and is believed to have boarded a bus travelling towards Ardrossan.

Fitzpatrick is described as white, approximately 5ft 8in tall, with a stocky build and short brown hair. He is also known to have links to the Ayrshire area.

Police Scotland said extensive searches and inquiries are ongoing to locate him and have warned members of the public not to approach him if sighted.

Instead, the public has been advised to contact the police immediately with any information that could assist in tracing his whereabouts.

Authorities said efforts to locate the missing prisoner would continue until he is found.