Police Hunt Dangerous Sex Offender Linked to Suspicious Death
Avon and Somerset Police are in a desperate manhunt for Richard Scatchard, 70, a convicted sex offender known for targeting women. The pensioner is wanted for questioning over a suspicious death at his Somerset home—and he’s also been recalled to prison.
High-Risk Fugitive Vanishes After Woman Found Dead
Scatchard vanished from Minehead shortly after police found the body of 61-year-old Kelly Faiers at his property on October 15. Although the post-mortem couldn’t conclusively reveal the cause of death, detectives are treating it as suspicious and probing deeper.
“We are fully committed to uncovering the truth behind Kelly’s death,” said Detective Chief Inspector Jess Aston.
Officers first visited Scatchard’s house the day Kelly was found but returned to find him gone on October 16. Since then, the police have shifted from worrying about his welfare to fearing he might pose a serious threat to others.
Prolific Dating App User and Criminal at Large
Scatchard is a known user of dating apps and has a history of sexual offences involving drugging victims. Despite extensive land and sea searches around Minehead, he remains on the run.
- 24 reported sightings—mostly in Minehead and nearby Watchet
- Known to have links in Cornwall, South Wales, Cheshire, and Leicestershire
The police urge anyone who spots him to call 999 immediately but warn against approaching him due to his dangerous nature.
Recognise Him? Here’s What to Look Out For
Scatchard stands about 5ft 11ins, with an average build, short grey hair, and speaks with a Scottish accent. He may be riding a very distinctive grey Gepida Alboin Curve electric bike featuring:
- A pink front tyre rim
- Flowers decorating the rear tyre rim
- Green and yellow electrical tape on the handlebars
The public’s help is crucial. If you have any information on Richard Scatchard’s whereabouts or recent contacts, call Avon and Somerset Police on 999 quoting case number 5223251706, or dial their non-emergency 101 number. You can also report tips via their official website.
This is a live investigation. Stay alert, stay safe.
