Police renew appeal to help trace rapist who is wanted for arson in Prestatyn

Police are continuing to appeal for information to help trace a man who is wanted.

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.

63-year-old Pentreath is also wanted after he failed to attend Woolwich Crown Court in London on Monday, October 3 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 and was last seen at Crewe Railway Station at approximately 6am on October 6.

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 Inspector Iwan Roberts of North Wales Police said:

“Our enquiries to trace Pentreath are ongoing and this includes liaison with colleagues at other police forces.

“I’d like to thank members of the public as well as the press and media who have helped us so far by sharing our appeal, however Pentreath remains outstanding.

“We are eager to find him as he is insulin dependent, and we are concerned for his safety as we do not know how much insulin he is carrying.

“I would urge anyone who has seen Richard Pentreath, or knows of his recent or current whereabouts, to contact us on 101. If people don’t want to speak to the police they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

“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 on 101, or via the live web chat, quoting reference number U154951.