York’s ‘most wanted’ still at large: Police urge people to stay vigilant

Rapist Jason Vincent remains on the run despite an intensive police hunt.

Today officers urged the public to stay vigilant and report any sightings immediately.

Vincent was found guilty of raping and strangling a teenage girl in his absence earlier this month.

York Crown Court sentenced him to nine years in jail for the offences, which took place more than ten years earlier.

The court issued a warrant for the arrest of Longhurst, 44 – who was also placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely.

Since then, officers have continued to search for Longhurst, making numerous enquiries to locate him. Sadly, despite their efforts and a public wanted appeal he remains outstanding.

Welsh connection

Detective Inspector Warren Peters of York Investigation Hub said: “Despite our extensive enquiries Longhurst currently remains outstanding.

“We will continue the search for him but I would also ask the public to continue to keep an eye out for Longhurst and to remain vigilant for any sightings of him.

“We know Longhurst sometimes uses the name Jason Welsh and that he has connections to the Cardiff area.

“Our colleagues at South Wales Police have been assisting us with our enquiries and supporting our wanted appeal, but there is the possibility that Longhurst could now be anywhere in country.

“So, we are widening our appeal and requesting the public’s continued support with our search.”

If you see Longhurst report any immediate sightings to North Yorkshire Police via 999 quoting reference 12210196408.

Pass on any other relevant information by calling 101 and asking for the Force Control Room.

If you would prefer to remain anonymous Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111.