Police continue to search for prison absconder

Police are searching for a man who failed to return to HMP Prescoed in Monmouthshire.

40-year-old Gareth James, 40, failed to return to from HMP Prescoed on Wednesday 17 August.

He was convicted of burglary and theft at Merthyr Crown Court in November 2019.

Gareth is described as a white male, around 5ft 9, medium build, short brown hair and blue eyes.

He is not a registered sex offender.

In a statement, the force said: "It is believed there may be a potential risk due to the fact that the individual is no longer in the custody of the prison service."

"Gwent Police has activated its operational plan with the aim of locating the individual and the prison are co-operating fully with us."

Members of the public are advised not to approach Gareth and to call police on 101 quoting 2200278680.