Sex offender on the run

James Campbell, 51, shouldn't be approached

Devon and Cornwall Police have re-issued an appeal to locate a sex offender who is wanted on recall to prison.

James Campbell, 51,was originally convicted of a number of violent and serious sexual offences and was released from prison just three months ago.

However he went on the run from his approved premises in Plymouth and his licence has been revoked. He was last known to be in the north east of the country.

Anyone who sees him is asked to call 999 immediately.

He is white, 5ft 4in tall, of stocky build, bald, with some greying stubble. He has a noticeable squint in his right eye.

Campbell has distinctive tribal tattoos on his arms and hands including words ‘Jimmy’ and ‘Mam’ on his right forearm, and birds on both hands.

He talks with a slight northern accent and has been known to use the alias Paul Withers or John Withers. He is known to like staying by the coast.

Detective Superintendent Sharon Donald, head of the force’s public protection unit, said: “James Campbell has a history of serious, violent sexual offending against women and we need to bring him into police custody as soon as possible.

“I would urge anyone who sees him not to approach him and to call 999 immediately quoting Devon and Cornwall Police log 743 of 15 February.

“Campbell’s last known location was in the Middlesbrough area on Friday 17 February.

“If anyone has any information about Campbell’s whereabouts, has had contact with him since November, or has information which may assist our enquiries, please report this to us.”

On recent CCTV he is seen wearing jeans/dark trousers, a dark-coloured beanie hat and was carrying a black rucksack. He has distinctive tattoos on his hands.

Police have provided details of Campbell's known movements since he was released from prison.

4 - 28 November 2022: He was staying at an approved premises in Plymouth.

14 December 2022: He’s seen on CCTV in Bournemouth, Dorset.

28 January – 2 February 2023: Campbell was in the Milford Haven and Haverford West areas of Wales.

2 February: He travelled by coach from Wales to Birmingham bus station.

17 February: He is believed to be in Middlesborough late afternoon. This is his last confirmed location.

Campbell has been predominantly travelling by bus and coach and paying for tickets in cash. He has previously been known to use a bicycle and may be living a transient off-grid lifestyle.

He has known links to Plymouth, Torquay, Bournemouth, north Yorkshire, Scotland and the south coast of England.

He shouldn't be approached. As well as calling police on 101, information can also be passed anonymously to CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111.