Widow hails PC killer's capture

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James Hurley was serving life for the murder of off-duty PC Frank Mason during a bungled security van raid in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, in 1988.

He escaped while he was being moved to Wandsworth Prison in south London by bus in 1994.

Hurley, 45, was arrested by Dutch police investigating a suspected drugs factory in The Hague on November 9, police said.

PC Mason's widow, Jill, said: "I am really pleased to hear the news that Hurley has been caught.

"It doesn't bring Francis back, but Hurley needs to serve time for the crime he committed."

Hurley took part in the armed robbery of a security van outside Barclays Bank in Hemel Hempstead, along with two other men, Perry Wharrie and Charles McGhee, on April 14, 1988.

Wharrie and McGhee, armed with guns, approached the security van guard as he drove up to the bank. Hurley was acting as the getaway driver and was parked nearby, according to police.

PC Mason attempted to intervene in the robbery but, as he grabbed one of the suspects and attempted to arrest him, he was shot in the back. The robbers made off with more than £15,000 in cash.

PC Mason was given first aid at the scene but died of his injuries, and was posthumously awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal for his bravery.