Escaped Prisoner Jailed for Bank Bomb Plot Inspired by Netflix
Alan Murphy, 62, an escaped convict, has been slammed with a 15-year prison sentence plus a five-year extended licence for plotting to blow up a local bank. The daring plot was foiled in November 2020 by Lancashire Police, who uncovered the plan after a routine check.
Caught Living Rough After Nine-Month Escape
On November 26, 2020, officers visiting a Blackpool campervan found Murphy, who initially gave a false name. A fingerprint scan soon revealed his true identity — he’d been on the run for nine months after escaping open prison.
Armed and Dangerous: Gun, IED, and More Found
Murphy shocked officers by admitting he carried a gun and an improvised explosive device (IED) in his bag. This sparked an immediate evacuation and deployment of a specialist team from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
- Authorities uncovered an IED, two imitation firearms, fireworks, and a knife.
- A threatening note demanding bank cards was also found, warning the device would be detonated if demands weren’t met.
Anger Fueled by Netflix Documentary, Claims Prisoner
Facing five charges including possession of explosives with intent, Murphy pleaded guilty to four. In court, he claimed his actions stemmed from fury after watching a Netflix documentary exposing a high street bank’s alleged ties to funding terrorism and Mexican drug cartels. He insisted he meant to damage property, not harm people.
Tom Snape, Senior Crown Prosecutor, slammed Murphy as “a dangerous man who planned a terrifying bomb attack on a bank and its staff.” He praised police for their swift action that stopped what could have been a disaster.
