By Former on-the-run sex offender fled custody on stolen prison bike
A former on-the-run sex offender who was branded a “danger to women and girls” appeared in court today charged with absconding from an open jail.
Paul Robson, 56, spent four days on the run after fleeing from North Sea Camp open prison on Sunday 13 February.
Robson was given a life sentence in 2000 after he sexually assaulted a woman at knifepoint.
He was last seen at HMP North Sea Camp, a Category D open jail near Boston, Lincs, at 23.59 on Saturday.
Robson was arrested in Skegness on Thursday after police received a call from a member of the public who recognised him.
This morning he appeared before Lincoln Magistrates Court charged with two offences of absconding from custody on 13 February and the theft of a prison service pedal cycle on the same date.
The court clerk told Robson the offence of escape was indictable only and could only be heard at Lincoln Crown Court.
Prosecution told the court Robson was convicted in August 2000 of offences including indecent assault and attempted rape and sentenced to life imprisonment.
They went on to recount his move to HMP North Sea and his subsequent escape not even a month later.
The court heard how Robson was also charged with the theft of an HMP pedal cycle which was found abandoned in a farm building around six miles from the prison.
It was added that Robson was eventually arrested in Skegness following a report from a member of the public after his disappearance prompted Lincolnshire Police to declare a nationwide manhunt.
The defense said there was no bail application from Robson and agreed the matter had to be sent to Crown Court.
Robson was remanded back into custody and will next appear at Lincoln Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on 18 March.
It is understood Robson will be returned to a closed prison and will not be eligible to apply for parole for at least a further two years.
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