Convicted killer absconds from prison

Police have launched an appeal after a convicted killer absconded from prison.

Andrew Craigie was handed a life sentence after admitting manslaughter by diminished responsibility in 2007 at Stafford Crown Court.

He had killed 61-year-old grandfather Geoffrey Watkins in a frenzied knife attack on June 28 2006.

Craigie, originally of Stoke-on-Trent, had known Mr Watkins for a number of years and had lived with him for some months.

The 38-year-old absconded from HMP Sudbury on Wednesday morning, Derbyshire Police said.

The force said he is described as white, 6ft tall, medium build, with brown hair and a short beard, and was wearing a blue checked shirt and dark trousers.

He has a 2in scar on his left thumb and a piercing in his left ear.

Craigie, who was diagnosed with an untreatable personality disorder, was told he would serve at least 10 years before being considered for parole.

Police said he also has links to Stafford and Lancashire.

Advertisement