Police hunt continues for sex offender wanted for questioning over woman’s death

Police are continuing to search for a sex offender wanted for questioning over the death of a woman who died at his home more than two weeks ago.

Avon and Somerset Police say Richard Scatchard, 70, from Minehead, poses a serious risk to the women he forms relationships with and he is a risk to the public.

The force has issued a new photo of Scatchard, that was taken earlier this year to help try and find him.

He is wanted on recall to prison and is also wanted in connection with the murder investigation.

A forensic, post-mortem examination to determine the cause of her death was inconclusive but it is currently being treated as suspicious while detectives await the results of further tests.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Jess Aston said: “As we have previously stated, Scatchard is a prolific user of dating apps and a number of years ago was convicted of sexual offences in which he administered drugs to his victims to enable his crimes.

“We have a number of hypotheses about what has happened to Scatchard but remain anxious given the risk he poses he could have formed a new relationship with one or more women.

“It is also possible he may be trying to avoid being seen by anyone given the publicity about this investigation and therefore would encourage anyone to contact us if they have an outbuilding or a remote building that looks like it may have been accessed by someone.”

Ms Aston continued: “Many of these as yet unconfirmed sightings have been in Minehead or in the surrounding areas and extensive searches by officers are taking place in those areas.

“The local neighbourhood team are also carrying out extra high-visibility patrols in the area.

“A community letter and a poster with Scatchard’s photo on it are being distributed too, in a bid to further encourage people with information to come forward.

“We are also working with other police forces across the country too. We know he has recent links to the Cornwall, Gwent and South Wales while previous links include the Cheshire and Leicestershire areas.

“Our absolute priority remains to locate Scatchard and see if he can assist with our inquiries.

“Richard, if you see this, it is not too late to do the right thing and hand yourself in.”

The last confirmed sighting of him was on Blenheim Road in Minehead at 10am on October 16.

Scatchard is described as being white, about 5ft 11ins, of average build with short grey hair. He speaks with a Scottish accent and has previously claimed to be called Richard Dunlop.

There is a chance he may appear dishevelled given the amount of time since his last sighting.

The police said they received information early on that Scatchard may be on a grey Gepida Alboin Curve electric bike, but now believe he could have a normal push bike instead.

Anyone who sees Scatchard is asked to ring 999, with the reference 5223259285. People can also provide information by calling 101, or by submitting it through the force’s website.