Missing prisoner 'escaped custody' during family funeral

A prisoner is being hunted by police in Edinburgh after escaping custody while attending a family funeral.

Jamie Ross 29, was last seen near Mortonhall Crematorium at around 12.28pm on Tuesday, and the public have been warned “not to approach” him.

He is believed to have links across Edinburgh, particularly in the south of the city, as well as in Aberdeen.

GEOAmey, the prison transportation service, said it is “disappointing” that the the funeral was used as an opportunity to escape.

A spokesperson said: “Our officers recognise the emotional significance of events such as funerals and try to show compassion and understanding whilst escorting persons in custody.

“It is therefore disappointing when this is abused and used as an opportunity to evade detention.”

Edinburgh & East

Public warned not to approach missing man as appeal launched

Jamie Ross 29, was last seen at the Howdenhall Road area of Edinburgh at around 12.28pm on Tuesday.

A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: “We can confirm that this individual is currently unlawfully at large we are working with Police Scotland to return him to custody.”

Ross is described as white, 5ft 9in with dark hair and bushy eyebrows, blue eyes and a tattoo of the word DAD on his right hand.

He was last seen wearing a black puffer jacket, dark trousers and grey trainers.

Chief inspector Mark Hamilton said: “Extensive enquiries are ongoing to trace Jamie with support from specialist officers.

“While Jamie is believed to have connections to the south of Edinburgh we are keeping an open mind regarding his whereabouts at this time and would urge anyone with information to please get in touch.

“Anyone who sees a man matching Jamie’s description is advised not to approach him but to instead contact Police Scotland urgently on 101, quoting incident number 1458 of Tuesday, April 23.”