Notorious Fugitive Caught After Three Years on the Run
James Ernest Williams, aka Alan John Appleton, has finally been nabbed by Devon & Cornwall Police after nearly three years as one of their most wanted. The 55-year-old failed to appear at Newton Abbot Magistrates Court back in December 2020, sparking a nationwide manhunt.
Surprise Arrest on Isle of Wight
Williams was arrested last Tuesday night on Folly Lane, Whippingham, Isle of Wight. Police whisked him off to Newport Police Station for questioning. Although it’s unclear how officers found him, his look had drastically changed—he’d put on weight and grown a beard and long hair to avoid detection.
Lives on a Boat, Charged with Serious Offences
Originally from Manchester but known to have strong ties across South Devon, especially Torbay, Dartmouth, and Paignton, Williams had been living on a boat on the River Medina. He’s now charged with two counts of failing to comply with sex offender notification requirements.
Custody and Court Dates Locked In
Williams was remanded in custody and appeared at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on June 30. His case escalated to the Crown Court last Thursday, with a new hearing set for August 5. Until then, he remains behind bars.
“Williams, also known as Appleton, was last known to live on Clarence Street, Dartmouth,” police sources reveal.
