Essex Police have confirmed the arrest of a convicted robber who absconded from a Suffolk prison, bringing an end to a brief manhunt. Scott Warner, aged 37, was reported missing from a roll call at HMP Hollesley Bay in Woodbridge, Suffolk, where he had been serving a sentence of four years and seven months for robbery and other related offences.
Arrest in Colchester Area
On Sunday, 8th February 2026, police announced that Warner was apprehended in the Colchester area on Saturday evening. He has since been taken into police custody and will be returned to the prison system to continue serving his sentence. Authorities have thanked members of the public for their assistance following appeals issued during the search.
Background on HMP Hollesley Bay
HMP Hollesley Bay is a Category D open prison, which typically allows detainees to spend most of their day off-site for purposes such as work, education, or other resettlement activities. This type of facility is designed to support rehabilitation, but it also presents opportunities for absconding, as seen in this case.
Warner's Criminal History
Scott Warner was convicted for robbery and other offences, leading to his incarceration. His links to Essex made the local police force a key player in the search operation. The swift arrest highlights the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between prison authorities and law enforcement in tracking down escapees.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by open prisons in balancing rehabilitation with security. While such facilities aim to reintegrate offenders into society, cases like Warner's remind us of the ongoing need for vigilance and public cooperation in maintaining safety.
