Authorities are cautioning the public against approaching a prisoner who escaped custody nearly three months ago. Darnell Smith, 27, is still being sought after fleeing HMP Springhill near Grendon Underwood, Buckinghamshire. Smith, approximately 5ft 8in tall with a medium build, was last spotted wearing all black attire during his escape on January 28.
Thames Valley Police disclosed that Smith has connections to Croydon, south London, and Plumstead, Surrey, as well as other areas in Surrey and Sussex. He is currently at large unlawfully, and law enforcement officials are advising individuals not to engage with him.
In the event of a sighting, individuals are urged to immediately contact 999. Information on Smith’s whereabouts can also be provided by calling 101 or via an online report, referencing number 43260045393. Thames Valley Police has requested information on their Facebook page, with the post garnering significant attention.
This incident follows the escape of Daniel Boakye, 21, from custody at Lewisham Hospital in southeast London after eluding security and officers in February. Boakye’s escape occurred a week after he vanished from hospital while under prison staff care. He was apprehended in Thamesmead, southeast London, and returned to HMP Feltham.
Despite his return, Boakye absconded again, prompting a renewed police plea to avoid approaching him. Boakye, facing deportation to Ghana, was sentenced to six years and five months in July 2023 for a series of knifepoint robberies involving £115,000 in cryptocurrency. Three accomplices were also sentenced.