Absconded prisoner who chased youths with machete in Northampton is returned to custody

Mark Merchant, who absconded from Springhill open prison in Grendon Underwood on Thursday May 4, has been found, police said today (Friday).

The 40-year-old has now been returned to custody.

Police thanked the public and the media for sharing an appeal.

Merchant had been in prison for committing arson recklessly, harassment and common assault.

He Merchant was also jailed in 2007 for brandishing a 15-inch machete as he chased a group of youths through the streets of Northampton.