Cops issue warning after dangerous arsonist and sex offender go on the run

01 January 2023 , 10:45

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Nicholas Courtney (left) and Johnny Brady (right) both escaped from St Andrew's Healthcare facility on Christmas Eve (Image: Northants Police)

An arsonist and sex offender have gone on the run from prison as police are warning the public to not approach them.

Johnny Brady and Nicholas Courtney both escaped from St Andrew's Healthcare facility in Northampton on New Year's Eve - police say these are not linked.

Courtney, 43, is a convicted sex offender. He escaped the same hospital at 6pm on Saturday while on an escorted walk with members of staff.

Brady, 19, is an arsonist and serving a hospital order for a serious assault in Derby, police say.

He escaped the hospital at about 3.30pm on Saturday.

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A previous police handout photo of Nicholas Courtney (PA)

Brady is described as white, about 5ft 9 and of a slim build. He was last seen wearing black Adidas tracksuit bottoms, a black hoodie, and black trainers.

A Northamptonshire Police spokesperson said: “We would like to appeal directly to Johnny to reassure him that he is not in trouble but to please return to St Andrews or make yourself known to the police. We need to make sure you are safe and receive the care that you need.

“We would also like to appeal to members of the public to under no circumstance approach Johnny. If you see him or know where he is, it is important that you call us as a matter of urgency on 999.”

Anyone who has seen Brady or knows of his whereabouts is asked to call Northamptonshire Police on 999, quoting incident number 275 of 31/12/22.

Officers are urging the public not to approach Courtney under any circumstances, but instead to call 999 with any sightings as a matter of urgency, quoting incident number 359 of 31/12/22. 4/4.

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Alahna Kindred