Sex offender caught after three weeks on the run

A sex offender who escaped from a Lincolnshire prison more than three weeks ago has been caught after being spotted by police.

James Hands, 38, from Nottingham, was reported missing from HMP North Sea Camp in Boston on 1 September.

He was arrested on Monday following a short foot chase in Nottingham city centre, Nottinghamshire Police said.

Hands has been charged with escaping from lawful custody and possession of a knife blade in a public place. He is due to appear at Nottingham Crown Court on 20 October.

Insp Paul Ferguson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: "Escaping from lawful custody and carrying a knife are extremely serious offences.

"I am pleased that Hands is now back in custody thanks to the swift actions, professionalism and determination of the officers who spotted and arrested him in the city centre."

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