Probe into how burglar escaped from Featherstone prison
An investigation has been launched into how a convicted burglar managed to escape from a prison in Staffordshire, as police continue to try to track him down.
Joseph Moss is on the run after managing to break free from HMP Featherstone near Wolverhampton on Thursday.
The 22-year-old was serving 32 months in jail after being sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court last August. The Ministry of Justice has insisted such incidents of a prisoner escaping are rare and an investigation is being conducted into the circumstances but it has led to some concerns that a convict was able to break free.
Gavin Williamson, defending his MP seat in Staffordshire, said: "It is incredibly concerning anyone has been able to escape from the prison. What the community wants to be having is reassurance everything is being done to apprehend this criminal and return them to prison."
It is believed Moss, from the Bartley Green area of Birmingham, could be in the West Midlands where he has numerous connections. He is white, of thin build and has cropped light brown hair.
In a statement the Prison Service said: "Escapes from prison custody are extremely rare but we take each one incredibly seriously. Public protection is our top priority.
"We are working closely with the police, who were immediately notified and are now carrying out an investigation."
Anyone with information should call 101.
