A MISSING prisoner who faked a medical emergency before escaping a high security van has been captured.
Jamie Cooper, 33, fled from the GEOAmey vehicle travelling to Lancaster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, Lancashire Police said.
The force said they received a report of the escape, believed to have taken place on the M55 near junction two for Catforth, near Preston, at about 8.54am.
He was found by police in a car in Blackburn, Lancashire on Saturday afternoon, said police.
Cooper has been arrested on suspicion of escaping from lawful custody.
Police said Mr Cooper, who was facing charges for assaulting a police officer and criminal damage, remains in police custody.
His escape sparked a large search by police, who issued CCTV footage of him running away from the van and walking near the University of Central Lancashire in Preston.
Lancashire Police posted on Facebook saying: “Over the last few days we had asked for your help to find wanted Jamie Cooper who absconded from a prison van on the M55 near Preston.
“At 8.54am on Wednesday 19th March, it was reported to us that Cooper had escaped from a GEOAmey van which was taking prisoners from Blackpool custody to Lancaster Magistrates Court.
“To update you, Cooper, 33, was found in Blackburn this afternoon after a car which had travelled from Bolton, was stopped by officers.
“He was arrested on suspicion of escaping from lawful custody and is now in custody.
“Thank you to everyone who shared the appeal, it is much appreciated.”
GEOAmey previously said they will be conducting a “full investigation” regarding the incident.
PAJamie Cooper, 33, has been apprehended by police after his escape[/caption] Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
