Police Hunt Escaped Sex Offender Richard Scatchard
Police are on the lookout for Richard Scatchard, a 70-year-old sex offender who vanished from Minehead on Sunday. Scatchard was jailed for life back in 2000 after admitting to drugging and abusing women, then filming obscene videos.
New Concerns Over Danger to Women
After an urgent social media appeal, fresh information has sparked fears about Scatchard’s potential threat, especially to women he might get close to. Detective Chief Inspector Jess Aston warned, “While we remain concerned for Richard’s welfare, we are now more concerned about the danger he may pose to other people, specifically women he forms relationships with.”
Wanted on Recall – Last Seen in Watchet
Recent inquiries reveal Scatchard is now wanted on recall to prison. The last confirmed sighting was Sunday at a shop in Watchet, with an unverified report spotting him near Minehead the next day around 10am.
Public Urged to Stay Vigilant
Scatchard is described as a white male, 5ft 11in, average build, with short grey hair. He is believed to be on foot or using an electric bike. Police are searching both Minehead and Watchet.
If you spot him, do NOT approach. Call 999 immediately, quoting reference number 5223251706. For other info, ring 101 with the same reference.
