DETECTIVES hunting a fugitive thief are hoping to widen the net by broadcasting his picture on national television.
Northwich police say they want to publish a mugshot of Paul Burgess, wanted in connection with the theft of more than £8,000 from Northwich Vics, on BBC’s Crimewatch.
Burgess, an employee of the club, vanished after a fundraising dinner in November, along with huge wads of cash belonging to chairman Mike Connett’s holding company, Beaconet.
An appeal in the Chronicle led to detectives being contacted by a number of callers who recognised Burgess’ picture, claiming he had stolen from previous employers.
Det Sgt Simon Newell, who is leading the investigation, said: “He is responsible for other similar offences over the last few years . It’s now a case of trying to track him down.”
He said his team have searched a “number of addresses” in the hope of snaring Burgess, but not managed to find him.
He added: “He’s circulated as ‘wanted’ – which means if he is stop- checked anywhere, for any reason, his picture will flash up and he’ll be arrested on the spot.
“We’re also looking to see if we can get his picture on Crimewatch.”
Burgess, who has used the surnames Johnstone and Kempthorn, is believed to be 29. Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0845 4580000 or CrimeStoppers on 0800 555111.
