Escapee suspected of shop thefts

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A man facing burglary charges who fled a psychiatric hospital with a murder suspect has raided two shops since he escaped, according to police.

Detectives are searching for John Slavin, 44, who absconded from Springfield Hospital in West London.

It is thought he robbed a book shop in Kensington on Wednesday and then stole a laptop computer near Ladbroke Grove.

Police said the suspect suffered from a mental health condition and did not have access to his medication.

In the first robbery police believe a knife was brandished at staff before he fled with a quantity of cash.

Mr Slavin, who police said should not be approached, is described as white, around 6ft 3in and thin.

He has tattoos on his left arm and hand, and short dark hair with a goatee beard.

He disappeared from Springfield Hospital on Tuesday with 28-year-old John Claydon.

Mr Slavin has been charged with aggravated burglary and was due to appear at Southwark Crown Court.