Ford prisoner is recaptured after going on the run

Stephen Meechan, 29, was recaptured in the Dorking area of Surrey in the early hours yesterday, Thursday, July 16, having absconded the previous Thursday.

Police earlier said that Meechan managed to escape a guard at St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester while undergoing treatment for an injured foot.

Members of the public who came forward with information leading to his recapture have been thanked.

Sussex Police constable Lewis Dines, who investigates absconders from HMP Ford, said: “This is another excellent example of the police and prison services working together across counties in a successful and effective manner.

“We want to reassure the public that all absconders from Ford are investigated from the moment that they leave the prison and it was no different in this case.

“Sussex Police look to prosecute offenders for absconding from prison to reinforce the message that such an act will have a consequence.

“I would like to thank all members of the public who reported sightings to Sussex Police, which led us to focus our investigation on a specific locality.

“This, along with the investigation that was ongoing at the time, ultimately led to his swift recapture.”

Meechan has been charged with escaping lawful custody and was due to appear at court today, Friday, July 17.

Anyone with any information about an absconder from HMP Ford can contact [email protected] or call 101 quoting Sussex reference Op Parcel.

People can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111.