A DANGEROUS man with convictions for indecent assault could be on the loose in Accrington.
Police this week appealed for help in tracing Paul Whiteley, who disappeared last Wednesday.
The 47-year-old was released from prison to an address in Accrington and is wanted by police, who are working with the National Probation Service, for breaching his licence conditions.
Whiteley also has convictions for burglary and assault and has connections in Blackburn, Blackpool and Halifax, as well as Accrington.
Police are warning the public not to approach Whiteley but to contact officers if he is seen.
He is described as white, 5ft 5ins tall, of medium build with blue eyes and dark brown, short, untidy hair and clean-shaven.
He was last seen wearing a navy-coloured England shirt and navy jeans.
Detective Inspector Ian Critchley of Blackburn Police said there had been some sightings of Whiteley this week, adding: "We are urging the public to help us find this man.
"He is dangerous and we are keen to trace him as soon as possible, which is why we have taken the unusual step of releasing his details and a photograph.
"We have had a good response to this appeal so far, as there have been several sighting of Mr Whiteley and officers are working on following these up.
"We are appealing for any information which the public can provide, in the hope that we will find him."
Anyone who has seen Whiteley can contact Blackburn Police on 51212.
