Paul Robson

Paul Robson, a 56-year-old sex offender from Newcastle, is currently the subject of an urgent police search after absconding from HMP North Sea Camp, an open prison near Boston in Lincolnshire. Described by authorities as a 'particular danger to women and young children,' Robson was reported missing at approximately 7am on Sunday, February 13, 2022. Lincolnshire Police have released updated images of him, noting that his distinctive braided beard may no longer be present and could appear untied or lighter in colour.

Robson's criminal history stems from a violent offence committed in 2000, for which he was sentenced at Oxford Crown Court. Having been released from prison just three weeks prior and while on licence, Robson broke into a woman's home through a cat flap. He tied her up, placed a pillowcase over her head, and subjected her to a brutal assault while holding a knife to her throat. The sentencing judge at the time labelled him a 'menace to females,' imposing an indeterminate life sentence with a minimum tariff of nine years. Despite this, Robson remained in custody for an additional 11 years beyond the tariff, totalling over 20 years served by the time of his transfer to the open prison on January 21, 2022.

In February 2021, during his fifth parole review, Robson was denied full release but recommended for transfer to the Category D open facility, where he was placed under less restrictive conditions. However, his escape has heightened concerns, with police warning that he 'can cause real harm to anyone he comes across.' Officers believe he may be in possession of a dark donkey jacket with a large collar and blue shoulders. Chief Superintendent Kate Anderson of Lincolnshire Police stated: 'It has now been three days since Paul Robson was last seen and we continue to appeal to members of the public for their help to find him. We are keeping an open mind as to his current whereabouts and we’re pursuing extensive lines of enquiry based on the information that the public have shared with us so far.'

The public has been urged not to approach Robson, who is described as a white male with a bald head, a long goatee beard, and a slim build. Instead, sightings should be reported immediately to Lincolnshire Police. Upon recapture, Robson is expected to be returned to a closed prison and will not be eligible for parole for at least another two years. This incident underscores ongoing challenges in managing high-risk offenders in open conditions, as reported by The Independent on February 16, 2022.