8:58am Tuesday 16th March 2010
By Richard Harris
A MANHUNT has been launched for a violent criminal who has breached the terms of his licence.
Richard James Sampson, 29, was locked up for nine years after being convicted in June 2004 of grievous bodily harm with intent.
Sampson, who was then 24 and lived in Nunthorpe Road, York, was with Michael Purnell when they attacked innocent passer-by Ian Thornton.
The pair had first attacked another man and attempted to steal his wallet before setting on Mr Thornton, stealing his gold chain and wallet in July 2003.
One pinned Mr Thornton down as the other repeatedly stamped on his leg.
The attackers fractured two of Mr Thornton’s bones, twisting one of his feet almost completely round.
Sampson later boasted about what he had done, while Mr Thornton later feared he would lose his foot because of septicaemia.
Sampson was released from his nine-year sentence on licence in November 2009, but this was revoked on February 23 this year, after he breached a curfew condition of the licence. When the authorities called at his house when he should have been there, they found he was out.
Police have been hunting for Sampson ever since, but have failed to find him. Their inquiries have focused on York and Hull, where he is also known to have friends.
Sampson is described as white, 6ft tall, with short, brown hair. He has a long face, large nose and protruding ears. He usually wears a tracksuit and a baseball cap.
A police spokesman said while it is not believed Sampson poses a danger to the public, people should not approach him regarding this matter.
Anyone with information that could help locate him should phone North Yorkshire Police on 0845 6060247, quoting the reference number 12100028842.
Alternatively, phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
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