Police in North Wales appeal to public for help in tracing a wanted man

An appeal has been issued for man who is wanted by North Wales Police.

Richard Pentreath, who is also known as Hilary Clifford Thomas, is wanted for arson with intent to endanger life following an incident at an address in Prestatyn during the early hours of Thursday, October 6^th 2016.

Although an incident took place up on the coast, it is believed he has travelled across to the north east of Wales and through to Crewe.

63-year-old Pentreath is also wanted after he failed to attend Woolwich Crown Court in London on Monday, 3rd October for historical rape offences. He was found guilty in his absence, and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest.

He is understood to have left Prestatyn by train shortly after the arson offence through the north east of Wales, onto Crewe Railway Station at approximately 5:30am on the same day (October 6th).

He is believed to be using public transport so could be anywhere in the country, however he has links to the London, Gloucester and Manchester areas.

He is described as being white, 6ft plus in height and of slim build. He has short dark swept back hair, a full grey beard. He also wears glasses. He was last seen wearing a dark coloured bobble hat, a waist length brown jacket and dark coloured jeans or trousers.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Verburg of North Wales Police said:

“We are in contact with other police forces, including British Transport Police and are appealing for anybody who may have seen him, or anybody who may know of his whereabouts, to contact North Wales Police immediately.”

“Similarly if Pentreath himself sees this appeal I would urge him to hand himself in at the nearest police station.”

Anybody with information should contact North Wales Police quoting reference number RC16152078.