Jailed arsonist goes on the run

Julien Chautard is said to have connections in France

An arsonist has absconded from prison just hours after he was convicted.

Julien Christopher Chautard, 39, went missing after he was taken to London's Pentonville prison following a hearing at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday.

He was convicted of arson with intent to endanger life and arson and was given seven years and 12-month prison terms, to run concurrently.

Chautard is 5ft 7in tall and slim with fair hair and blue eyes and is said to have connections in France.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said the police were investigating the circumstances.

Chautard is also known to have links to the Hackney, Edgware and Kings Cross areas of London.

The Met said he is thought to have escaped shortly after arriving at Pentonville prison at about 1900 GMT.

The Ministry of Justice said in a statement: "On March 27, prisoner Julien Christopher Chautard, DOB 23/3/70, escaped from custody while being processed on arrival at HMP Pentonville.

"The circumstances around the escape will be fully investigated."

It said it is now a matter for the police.