Ford Prison inmate goes missing during 'lockdown': call 999 if you see him

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A Ford Prison inmate has gone missing while the open prison was in 'lockdown' due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Police are searching for James Hutton, 30, who is wanted for absconding from Ford Prison on Tuesday, July 14, where he was serving a sentence for burglary, assault on an emergency worker and dangerous driving, a force spokesman said.

He was described as being 6ft, of slight build, with short dark hair, clean shaven and with a scar on his face.

He is also believed to have taken clothes with him and is likely to have changed soon after leaving prison, police said.

A spokesman said: "Hutton has links to Eastbourne and Mitcham in south London, and members of the public are urged to keep an eye out for him in these areas in particular.

"Anyone who sees him is advised not to approach him, but to dial 999 immediately."

This comes as a recent inspection of the open prison in Ford Road, Ford, found that a temporary ban on prisoners going out to work in the community or seeing family was taking its toll on their wellbeing.

Hutton absconded a day before bars, hairdressers and restaurants were allowed to reopen by the Government.

Witnesses can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report their information online.