Police have launched an urgent manhunt after Stephen Grzyb, 22, escaped from a custody van outside Liverpool Magistrates Court on Saturday, 1 August. The prisoner, from Princess Drive in the West Derby/Dovecot area, was being transported by GEOAmey from Belle Vale custody suite when he fled at around 10am as the vehicle arrived at the court building. He ran down Red Cross Street towards The Strand, leaving officers to race to track him down.
Charged with domestic burglary
Grzyb had been charged in connection with a domestic-related burglary, police confirmed. He is described as white, with short dark hair, and was last seen wearing a navy T-shirt and navy shorts. His distinctive clothing and route have been key to the search, with officers focusing on the city centre and surrounding areas.
The escape happened during the morning, prompting a significant police response. Officers on foot and in patrol cars have been scouring the area, while CCTV teams are reviewing footage from cameras along the escape route and beyond.
Safety of alleged victim a priority
Merseyside Police said patrols have also attended the home of the alleged victim involved in the case to ensure their safety while the search continues. The force has not disclosed the exact nature of the alleged offence but stressed that domestic-related incidents are treated with the utmost seriousness.
Detectives are working to establish how Grzyb managed to escape from the GEOAmey van, which is operated by a private company on behalf of the Prison Service. This is likely to be part of a wider review into the incident.
Police appeal: 'Do the right thing'
Temporary Inspector Bethan Hannon said: "We understand the concern this incident will cause, and it is vital the public can see Grzyb's face so they can report any sightings and help us bring him back into custody as soon as possible.
"If you have heard from him or know where he is, please do the right thing and come forward. Assisting him in any way will bring police to your own door, so it is not an association worth keeping.
"If you see Grzyb, please call 999 immediately. We are carrying out extensive enquiries to find him with patrols on foot and CCTV enquiries being made right across the city centre so that we can return him to custody."
How to report information
Members of the public are urged not to approach Grzyb but to contact police immediately. Anyone who sees him should call 999. Those with any other information can contact Merseyside Police via the social media desk on X and Facebook at @MerPolCC, through the force's website, or by calling 101, quoting incident reference 26000615520.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their online form. The charity guarantees that information will not be traced to the caller.
The search for Grzyb continues as police work to ensure the safety of the public and bring him back before the courts to face the charges against him.
