David Devlin: Police hunt violent offender who absconded HMP Kirkham
“Devlin, 35, absconded from HMP Kirkham in April 2026 while he was serving a 22-year sentence for violent offences.”
A violent convict serving a 22-year sentence is on the run after absconding from HMP Kirkham, with police warning the public not to approach him.
David Devlin, 35, fled the open prison in April. Detectives are now asking for help from across Lancashire to locate him, noting he has known links to Preston, Blackpool and Fylde.
A Lancashire Police spokesperson said: “Devlin, 35, absconded from HMP Kirkham in April 2026 while he was serving a 22-year sentence for violent offences.”
Officers have spent months tracking Devlin and are now widening their public appeal.
The spokesperson added: “Enquiries have been ongoing since then to find him, and we are asking for your help. Devlin, who is also known as David Michael Devlin and Michael Berry, is 5ft 8in tall, of medium build, has short brown hair and a brown beard/goatee.”
Devlin also speaks with an Irish accent and has distinguishing facial marks.
“He has scars above both eyebrows and speaks with an Irish accent. Devlin has links to Preston, Blackpool, Fylde, Halifax, Leicestershire, Oswestry, Northampton and Leicester,” the force spokesperson said.
Anyone who spots Devlin is instructed to dial 999 straight away.
The spokesperson said: “If you see Devlin, please do not approach him and call 999. Any sightings of Devlin or information as to where he might be, please email