Police Search For Psychiatric Patient On The Run

Police are searching for a young woman who has escaped from a psychiatric unit in Bury.

Carrie McCarten, 21, from Everton, went missing at around 12.30 on Wednesday on a visit to the dentists in Bury town centre.

Merseyside Police said that she has links to the Merseyside area and "it's believed she headed back there".

Police are carrying out enquiries to make sure she is safe and well.

A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "Staff at the hospital do not believe she had cash or a mobile phone with her and medical staff are becoming increasingly concerned for her welfare.

"Without the appropriate medication, there is a concern that, she may become unwell. Without continued treatment, Carrie may become violent and may cause harm to herself or others."

Carrie was sent to a secure hospital last July after admitting breaking into 18-year-old Paige Affelat's home in Anfield and attacking her with a broken bottle while she showered, in June, 2006.

Judge Elizabeth Steele who presided over the case at Liverpool Crown Court decided that she suffered from schizophrenia and that she should be sent to a psychiatric hospital rather than prison.

Carrie was charged with 'wounding with intent' and 'witness intimidation' in January.

Her co-accused Carly Barrett was jailed for six years for her part in the attack although her sentence has now been reduced to five years on appeal.

It is reported that Paige was a former friend and Carrie had thought she was in a relationship with her ex boyfriend.

Paige needed 100 stitches after the attack.

Carrie's eventual release must be approved by the Ministry of Justice.

(DS)