Police Launch Search for Absconded Inmate James Fitzpatrick

Police Scotland launched an urgent search for 36-year-old inmate James Fitzpatrick after he failed to return to HMP Castle Huntly, an open prison near Dundee, following an approved visit on Monday, December 29, 2025. The prisoner, who was last seen in Irvine town centre around 11:20 a.m. that day, is believed to have boarded a bus headed to Ardrossan and has known connections in the Ayrshire area.

Fitzpatrick was reported missing the following day, Tuesday, December 30, and authorities have described him as white, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a stocky build and short brown hair. When last spotted, he wore a black Nike tracksuit featuring white stripes along the arms and legs, and carried a yellow JD Sports carrier bag along with a black holdall. Officers emphasized that he poses a potential risk, urging members of the public not to approach him if sighted but to notify police immediately.

The investigation remains active, with extensive enquiries and searches underway across the region. A Police Scotland spokesperson stated, "Anyone with any information is asked to contact 999, quoting reference 2717 of Monday, 29 December, 2025. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers...