Scarborough police are appealing for assistance to track down a wanted man who needs to be returned to jail.
Jack Gates, 21, whose last known address was in Trafalgar Square, has breached his prison release licence conditions after failing to attend appointments with the Probation Service and for poor behaviour.
He is suspected of taking a car without the owner’s consent and an attempted assault on the owner in Scarborough at about 6.30pm on Wednesday, January 9.
The vehicle was found on its roof in woodland at Forge Valley by an off-duty police officer at 6.50pm the same day.
Gates was sentenced to 18 months in prison on January 25, 2012 for a “2-in-1 burglary” on Garfield Road, Scarborough, when car keys were taken from the house and the car was stolen. He was also charged with driving without a licence and insurance. The offence occurred on July 25, 2011.
He was released from prison under licence on October 24 last year.
Following the Ministry of Justices’ instruction to recall Gates back to prison last Thursday (January 17), North Yorkshire Police has been carrying out extensive enquires in and around the Scarborough area to find him. His details have also been circulated to all police forces in the country.
Officers are asking local residents to assist the search by reporting any sightings or information about Gates’ whereabouts to the police as soon as possible.
Acting Chief Inspector Paul Healy, of the Scarborough Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “Jack Gates’ behaviour is completely unacceptable and has no place in our community.
“He has shown a blatant disregard to the criminal justice system and the sooner he is returned to prison the better for everyone concerned.
“If anyone knows where he is or possibly seen a man matching his description, then I urge you to contact the police without delay. Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers if you do not wish to give your name.”
Gates is described as white with short dark-brown hair, 5ft 7in tall, medium build, green eyes and he often has facial stubble.
If you have information to assist the investigation, contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1, and pass information to the Force Control Room.
Details can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
Please quote reference number 12130009000.