A manhunt is underway after a convicted rapist failed to return to prison after a ‘day trip’.
Sean Phipps, 51, is serving a lengthy custodial sentence at HMP Leyhill near Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, after being convicted of kidnap and rape in 2002.
He travelled to Bristol city centre on Wednesday 1 June during a day release from the prison but failed to return – sparking an urgent search for the preperator.
Phipps has previously gone by a number of surnames, including Cawthray, Goldthorpe, and Perry.
He is described as white, about 6ft 2ins and was wearing at the time of his release a black coat over a blue top, blue jeans and Timberland footwear. He also wore a black Casio watch, blue glasses, and carried a vape pen with him.
Detective Inspector Dan Rowan said: “Sean Phipps travelled to Bristol city centre on Wednesday but failed to return to HMP Leyhill as required.
“At this time we are keeping an open mind as to where he is, but believe he could have travelled outside the force area. He’s known to have links with the Leicester and Leeds areas.”
Anyone who sees Phipps should call 999 and give reference number 5222130002. Alternatively, anyone who knows where he may have travelled to is asked to call 101 and use the same reference number.
