A major manhunt has been launched across Dorset for a prisoner who dramatically escaped from a transport van while barefoot and wearing a handcuff on his wrist. The fugitive, John Evans, aged 32, had just appeared at Poole Magistrates' Court on an assault charge alongside other offences and was remanded in custody before making his daring getaway.
Details of the Escape
The escape occurred at precisely 5.28pm yesterday on Poole Road in Poole, Dorset. Evans was being transported to another location by a privately operated prisoner transport company when he managed to flee the vehicle. He was last seen wearing grey clothing, though authorities have warned he may have since changed his attire to avoid detection.
Police Response and Public Warning
Dorset Police immediately scrambled helicopters and deployed officers en masse to conduct a thorough search of the area. Superintendent Joe Pardey of Dorset Police addressed the public, stating: "I would like to reassure members of the public that we have officers carrying out searches and other enquiries in a bid to locate John Evans as soon as possible and return him to lawful custody."
The police have issued a stern warning to the public not to approach Evans under any circumstances. Instead, anyone who spots him should dial 999 immediately. Evans is described as white, 5 feet 8 inches tall, of medium build, with distinctive ginger hair.
Extensive Police Presence
Dorset Police confirmed there will be an extensive police presence in the area until Evans is apprehended. Superintendent Pardey added: "There will be an extensive police presence in the area as we carry out these enquiries and officers can be approached by members of the community with any concerns."
Anyone with information that might assist the investigation is urged to call 101, quoting incident number 2:388, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Context of Prison Escapes in the UK
Prison escapes remain relatively rare occurrences in the United Kingdom. According to recent statistics from Statista, only 12 escapes were reported between 2024 and 2025. However, when they do occur, they often capture significant public attention and require substantial police resources.
Recent Notable Escape
The escape brings to mind the case of Daniel Khalife, who escaped from HMP Wandsworth in September 2023. Khalife managed to cling to the underside of a food delivery lorry to break out of the Category B prison and remained at large for three days before being captured.
He was eventually found riding a stolen mountain bike along a canal towpath in Northolt, west London, approximately 14 miles from the prison. Khalife was later sentenced to 14 years and three months in prison after attempting to reconnect with an Iranian contact during his time as a fugitive.
The current manhunt for John Evans continues with all available resources, as authorities work to ensure public safety and return the escaped prisoner to custody. The unusual circumstances of his escape—barefoot and handcuffed—have added an extra layer of urgency to the police operation.
