Sex offender on the run in Ireland back in Derry prison

The 29-year-old has convictions of gross indecency towards a child, rape aggravated assault and other serious offences.

A SEX OFFENDER who had been on the run from a Northern Ireland prison has returned to jail.

John Patrick Smyth had failed to return to Magilligan Prison in Derry on Monday after a period of approved home leave.

Yesterday, the Northern Ireland Prison Service has released a photo of him in the hope of tracing his whereabouts. They also released details of his distinguishing features including a tattoo of the letters ‘Ftw’ and dots across his knuckles.

It’s now been confirmed by prison authorities that he has returned to Magilligan Prison.

The 29-year-old prisoner’s convictions include:

Gross indecency with or towards a child;
Rape;
Aggravated assault;
Armed with an offensive weapon with intent to commit offences;
Threats to kill;
Drug use.

- With reporting from Rónán Duffy

- Originally published 16 September

Read: Man with Irish accent wanted by UK police for late night takeaway attack that broke man’s jaw>

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