The 27-year fugitive
OAP arrested at Heathrow over 13 kid abuse charges
ONE of Britain’s most wanted fugitives has been arrested after 27 years on the run.
Richard Burrows, 80, had been hunted since he fled the country in 1997 after being charged with child abuse offences.
Officers said he was arrested on Thursday at Heathrow airport as he returned to the UK from Thailand.
In 1997, he failed to turn up for his trial at Chester crown court but has now finally appeared there.
He was in cuffs and a prison grey tracksuit as he was led away from court yesterday after being remanded in custody.
Detective Inspector Eleanor Atkinson, from Cheshire police, said: “Our determination to locate Burrows has not faltered over the past 27 years.
“His arrest marks a significant step forward in this case and the beginning of closure for all those involved. I would
like to thank the public for the information they provided over the years during our search, and I hope that his arrest provides some reassurance.
“I also hope his arrest acts as a warning to any other wanted suspects, demonstrating that no matter how long you hide, we will find you and you will be arrested.”
He was originally charged with two counts of a serious sexual assault and 11 of indecent assault.
Police said some related to alleged crim e s in a children’s home in Congleton, Cheshire, between 1969 and 1971.
Other alleged offences were in the West Midlands between 1971 and 1981. Burrows was arrested this week as part of a joint operation between Cheshire police and the National Crime Agency.
He is due in court again in June with a provisional trial date set for January.
No matter how long you hide, we will find you and you will be arrested
DET INSP ATKINSON ON BURROWS BEING DETAINED