CCTV images have today been issued of a violent criminal with mental health issues who went on the run after being given ‘town leave’ while being treated in Ipswich.
John Gladstone is on a life licence following his original convictions at Northampton Crown Court in 2002 for robbery and possession of a firearm. He is currently being hunted by police.
It can now be revealed that the 34-year-old was subsequently convicted again at the same court on July 23, 2013. over a raft of offences.
On that occasion Gladstone pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, theft of a motor vehicle, possession of an imitation firearm, and having a firearm with intent to resist arrest.
The offences were committed on February 23, 2013
Gladstone was sentenced to a term of four-and-a-half-years’ imprisonment.
He has links to the Suffolk Coastal area, South Norfolk, Northamptonshire and the West Midlands.
Suffolk Constabulary has said Gladstone had been allowed ‘town leave’ from his treatment unit in Foxhall Road, leaving the premises at 7.30am on Tuesday.
He had conditions to return to the unit by 3.30pm the same day, but failed to comply with them.
Gladstone is described as being of mixed race, 5ft 10in tall, of heavy build, and with short black hair.
He was wearing black Karimoor trousers, a grey hooded top and he speaks with a London accent.
Police are warning people not to approach Gladstone, but to get in touch with them.
Anyone who believes they may have seen Gladstone, or who has any information regarding his whereabouts, is asked to contact Suffolk Constabulary on 101.
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