A major search operation is underway in Derry after a prisoner facing an armed robbery charge gave the cops the slip at the local court house today.
Dean Beattie’s dramatic dash to freedom at Bishop Street courthouse was captured by a UTV camera and local reporter Mark McFaddden.
Beattie, 22, had been brought to court under police guard from Strand Road PSNI station.
He was due to be charged with a number of serious offences including armed robbery and possession of an imitation firearm and a kitchen knife.
The charges related to an incident earlier this month at Northland Road when a couple were robbed and the male occupant of a flat was pistol-whipped.
He’s alleged to have stolen their mobile phones, their cash and their Christmas presents.
Today, Beattie dramatically broke free from a police officer and climbed over two metal fences.
Then lankky Beattie took to his heals and bolted down Bishop Street before turning into Palace Street.
He was last seen heading in the direction of the Bogside.
The police officer was unable to give chase as he was left inside the secure locked compound.
The officer radioed Strand Road station for assistance as his prisoner was now unlawfully at large.
This evening Beattie remains at large as police across Derry are on the hunt for him.
Anyone who knows of his whereabout is asked to ring Strand Road station on the 101 number or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.