Predator Ivan Leach Poses 'Significant Risk'

(Posted on 27/10/12)

Ivan Leach, a convicted brutal robber who has also been convicted of assault and burglary, made his escape October 9 when he didn't return from a day release. Now, police are worried he's committed at least one violent sex offence since his escape.

Also known as Lee Cyrus, he's been in prison since 2005 for robbing a 90 year old woman. Until his escape, he was serving is sentence at North Sea Camp in Boston, Lincolnshire. Police are encouraging the public to not approach him and say he "poses a significant risk". They're also concerned he may be the one who is responsible for what law enforcement says is a "very serious sexual attack". He may have also approached two young girls as they waited at a bus stop on October 17. The man who approached these girls fit Leach's description. Fortunately, the bus arrived and the girls were able to get away from him. They called police as soon as they arrived at their destination.

When he escaped, he was serving a life sentence. Many are concerned he may be traveling with the mindset that he has nothing to lose. Detective Chief Inspector Ian Dawson said, in a presser, "Leach is an extremely dangerous and predatory individual who poses a serious threat to members of the public. He has previous convictions for burglary, sex offences against a young girl, assault and robberies in which he has targeted elderly people in their own homes."

Police have looked day and night but haven't been able to catch up to him. They're hoping someone he's been in contact with will contact them with any information they might have. It's also believed he's returned home at least a few times since his breakout, though law enforcement also says he could be anywhere.

He is described as having a scar on his top lip, directly under his nose, as well as two tattoos: one with the name "Annette" on his left bicep and another figure of a woman on his right shoulder blade. He is 5' 11", stock build, cropped hair and hazel eyes.

The last known sighting was on October 19th in Lea, Preston and it's believed he was also seen the following day in Nottingham.

Please contact law enforcement officials if you have any information regarding this escaped prisoner.