Police have arrested a man in Nottingham city centre who had absconded from prison.
A search had been underway since 1 September after James Hands, 38, was discovered to be on the run from HMP North Sea Camp, a Category D prison in Lincolnshire.
Hands is serving a sentence in relation to stalking and harassment.
He was arrested on Monday morning (21 September) following a short foot chase in Nottingham city centre, during which a foldable knife was discarded in Greyhound Street before being retrieved by officers.
Hands has been charged with escaping from lawful custody and possession of a knife blade in a public place.
He appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (22 September) and was remanded into custody ahead of his next appearance at Nottingham Crown Court on 20 October.
Inspector Paul Ferguson, of the City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team, 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.
“Their vigilance and quick response ensured he was detained safely and brought back into custody, and I would like to commend the officers for their excellent work.”
