James Ernest Williams

A wanted sex offender, James Ernest Williams, also known as Alan John Appleton, was apprehended by police after evading capture for almost two years. The 55-year-old, originally from Manchester with ties to Warrington and South Devon areas including Torbay, Dartmouth, and Paignton, had been living on a boat on the River Medina on the Isle of Wight.

Williams became one of Devon & Cornwall Police's most wanted in October 2020 when he breached the conditions of his release from prison and failed to appear at Newton Abbot Magistrates' Court on 9th December 2020. An appeal was issued to locate him, with possible sightings reported in Portsmouth and Reading. His last known address was Clarence Street in Dartmouth.

On Tuesday night, 5th July 2022, officers from Devon & Cornwall Police arrived at Folly Lane in Whippingham, Isle of Wight, where Williams was arrested and taken into custody at Newport Police Station for questioning. It is believed his appearance had changed significantly—he had gained weight and grown his hair and beard—to avoid detection.

Following his arrest, Williams was charged with two counts of failing to comply with sex offender notification requirements. He was remanded in custody and appeared at Portsmouth Magistrates' Court on Thursday, 7th July 2022. The case was committed to the Crown Court, with Williams scheduled to appear on 5th August 2022. He remains in custody until that date.

The arrest highlights the challenges in monitoring sex offenders post-release, particularly those who abscond and change their identities. Devon & Cornwall Police confirmed the details in a statement, emphasising their commitment to public safety. Local residents expressed relief on social media, with one commenter stating, 'I'm glad the police done another fine piece of work getting this scum bag off our roads and locked up.'

Source: Island Echo, 7th July 2022.