UK police have launched a manhunt for suspect who is wanted in connection with multiple sex attacks after he skipped bail and went on the run.
Derek Johnson – who is described as having links with Northern Ireland – is accused of befriending vulnerable victims online before travelling to meet them and then committing offences.
Last month, Johnson (58) was arrested by Hertfordshire Police following a major police investigation.
However, he later absconded from bail and a police manhunt has now been launched..
The public have warned if they see Johnson, “do not approach him but call 999 immediately.”
According to police, Johnson has links to “Gloucestershire and Devon in the South West and Stevenage, Hertfordshire, West Midlands Yorkshire, Wales, Ayrshire, Northumbria, Northern Ireland and Kent.”
Gloucestershire Police said: “We are appealing for help in locating a man wanted in connection with a number of sex offences. Derek Johnson, aged 58, is believed to have committed offences in Gloucestershire, Kent and potentially elsewhere in the UK, befriending vulnerable victims online before travelling to meet them in person.
“He was arrested by Hertfordshire Police last month at our request before later absconding from bail. It’s believed he could now be anywhere in the country.
“Johnson is believed to have connections in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, Gloucestershire, West Midlands, Devon, Yorkshire, Wales, Ayrshire, Northumbria, Northern Ireland and Kent. The public are advised not to approach him.”