PATRICK CASH, THE SEX OFFENDER FROM BOWERS GIFFORD, ESCAPES AND GOES ON THE RUN IN BASILDON AND LONDON

In July 2007, a serious incident involving a convicted sex offender unfolded in the area of Bowers Gifford, leading to significant concern over public safety and the management of offenders with mental health issues. Patrick Cash, aged 35, who had previously been convicted of twice raping a schoolboy in 1995, became the center of attention after he absconded from a mental health facility known as Clare House, located on Burnt Mills Road in Bowers Gifford.

Cash's disappearance marked the fourth time he had managed to escape from Clare House. His latest escape occurred shortly after he was granted permission to leave the facility for a shopping trip. Instead of returning as scheduled, Cash took a train from Basildon to London, where he spent time drinking with friends. His actions raised immediate concerns among authorities and the local community, given his criminal history and the potential risk he posed.

Initially, police authorities did not inform the public about Cash's escape. It was only after five days that a public appeal was issued, alerting residents and urging anyone with information to come forward. During this period, Cash remained at large, causing anxiety among residents of Bowers Gifford and surrounding areas.

Eventually, Cash decided to surrender himself to the police. His return did not come without consequences. At Basildon Crown Court, Judge Philip Clegg addressed the situation, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding both the individual and the community. The judge pointed out that Cash's actions necessitated stricter measures, stating, "I am not in the business of punishing the mentally-ill, but I am in the business of ensuring the public are protected."

Following his recapture, Cash was returned to Clare House under close supervision. The court's decision included a temporary ban on any further outings for Cash, reflecting the serious concerns about his ability to adhere to restrictions and the potential danger he might pose if allowed unsupervised access to the community again. This incident underscored the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in managing offenders with mental health issues and the importance of vigilant monitoring to prevent such dangerous escapes in the future.