Overview
- Matthew Armstrong, a convicted murderer, and Daniel Washbourne, a violent offender, left open prison HMP Leyhill between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on New Year’s Day and remain at large.
- Aaron Thomas, 39, was arrested in Bristol on Saturday and has been charged with escaping lawful custody, with a court appearance set for Monday in Bristol.
- Avon and Somerset Police released CCTV images, circulated national wanted alerts, and conducted address checks that have so far proved negative.
- Police urge the public not to approach Armstrong or Washbourne and to call 999 with sightings, quoting reference 5226000700; other information can be reported via 101 or Crimestoppers.
- Reporting highlights that HMP Leyhill is a category D open prison and notes Armstrong’s history of violent behavior in custody, prompting scrutiny of placements at lower-security sites.