Convicted paedophile Darren Inkpen, assessed by police as posing a 'high risk of serious harm' to children, is missing after failing to comply with Sex Offenders' Register conditions. The 56-year-old was released from prison in Kent in April 2026 but has not relocated to Leeds as required.
Background and Conviction
Inkpen was jailed in 2021 and placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for life after admitting three sexual assaults in the Hartlepool area. The assaults left his victim 'shaking', according to reports from Hartlepool Mail. At his sentencing at Newcastle Crown Court, he complained that his punishment might affect his involvement in miniature horse shows.
Release and Recall
Originally from Woodview Road in Beeston, Leeds, Inkpen was first released from prison in November 2025 and expected to return to Yorkshire. However, he was recalled to prison after failing to register his address with police. He was released again from a prison in Kent in April 2026 but has since failed to comply with the conditions of his release, prompting a fresh police search.
Police Appeal
A West Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: 'Police are appealing for information to help locate Darren Inkpen who is wanted for failing to comply with the notification requirements of the Sex Offenders' Register. Inkpen, aged 56, was released from prison in Kent in April after being recalled to prison following a previous breach last year. He was due to relocate to the Leeds area. Since his release, he has failed to comply with the conditions of the Sex Offenders' Register. Officers have conducted extensive arrest enquiries in order to try and locate Inkpen and are now appealing for the public's help. He has connections to the Kent and Sussex areas.'
How to Help
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, or report online quoting reference 13260257516. Information can also be provided anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
