This is the moment a man believed to be an escaped prisoner fled across fields after he faked a medical emergency and fled the van taking him to court.
Jamie Cooper, 33, fled from the prison van which was carrying suspects to Lancaster Magistrates’ Court, on the M55 by Catforth, Preston.
But he faked a medical emergency, before ‘overpowering and evading’ escort officers before escaping, contractor GEOAmey said.
Footage published by BBC appears to show a prisoner, who is believed to be Cooper, running through fenced fields.
Lancashire Police received a report of the escape at about 8.54am on Wednesday.
Cooper is described as 5ft 7ins tall, of medium build with short, cropped hair, and is thought to be wearing a blue coat, blue jeans and black trainers.
GEOAmey said: ‘The detained person involved in this emergency then overpowered and evaded the escort officers and escaped from the vehicle.
‘Lancashire Police have been informed and are currently searching for the escaped prisoner.’
Lancashire Police said: ‘We know that this may be concerning to hear about, but we want to reassure you that incidents like these are extremely rare in Lancashire and it is something we are taking incredibly seriously.
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‘Searches and an investigation are ongoing, and you will see an increase in our officers in the area as they continue their inquiries.
‘If you have any concerns, please do approach them as they are out and about.’
Cooper has links to Blackpool and Bolton.
Police have said anyone who sees Cooper should not approach him but call 999 immediately.
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