20/10/2006

High risk sex offender found in Republic

An on the run high risk sex offender who absconded after breaking his probation conditions in September, has been located in the Republic of Ireland.

Paul Hunter Redpath, 35, and originally from Scotland, sparked a cross-border manhunt after he failed to return to approved accommodation on September 29.

Redpath had been released from prison early after being convicted of sex offences against two under-age girls.

After pleading guilty in June 2005 to indecent assault and unlawful carnal knowledge of a 13-year-old girl, Redpath was given a three-year sentence and a three-year probation term – he was released early due to having already spent over a year on remand.

He was found last night at an undisclosed location in the Republic by Gardai, and has since registered with them and is now subject to sex offender requirements in their jurisdiction.

Local authorities have today called for Redpath to be deported back to the north, however it is understood that he can only be arrested if Irish police receive a warrant seeking his extradition.

The PSNI have not yet disclosed whether such a warrant is being sought.

Speaking earlier, the DUP's Ian Paisley Jr said: "I am very alarmed that a man who has engaged in such very serious crimes is at large in the Republic of Ireland.

"Irrespective of their regime, it is known that he is wanted in Northern Ireland and should be returned urgently."

(EF)

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