A 22-year-old man from Hove fled a hospital in handcuffs and escaped from police even though he was awaiting treatment for a broken arm.
Jessie Burbridge, formerly of North Place, Brighton, managed to get away from officers on Friday (6 April) although details only emerged yesterday (Wednesday 11 April).
Sussex Police said: “Police are searching for Jessie Burbridge, who is wanted for a series of offences in Worthing and is believed to be injured.
“Shortly after 12.30pm on Friday, officers on patrol in the town centre approached the 22-year-old who was sought in connection to an assault in Brighton.
“Burbridge assaulted one of the officers and ran off. However, he was found hiding in a nearby shed shortly afterwards and was subsequently arrested.
“The 22-year-old, from Hove, complained of a pain in his arm and was taken to Worthing Hospital to be assessed, where it was revealed he had a fractured arm.
“Despite this, he again ran off – while still handcuffed and before receiving treatment for his injury – and police carried out a search of the area but to no avail.
“He was last seen scaling a wall to the gasworks in Lyndhurst Road.”
Detective Inspector Clare Shiel said: “Despite the efforts of numerous officers and the police helicopter, we were unfortunately unable to trace Burbridge.
“He was clearly determined to avoid us but we remain determined to catch him.
“We’re also concerned for his welfare as he has not received any treatment for his arm injury.
“If you see him, please call 999 immediately. Or, if know where he may be, please report it online or call 101, quoting serial 573 of 06/04.
“Alternatively, you can visit the Crimestoppers website or contact the independent charity anonymously on 0800 555111.
“Burbridge is wanted for an assault in Brighton and for escaping from lawful custody, assault and criminal damage in Worthing.”
