Hit-and-run killer back behind bars

Dominic Huggett, from Thornaby, near Stockton, absconded in September 2004, after he was jailed for killing 86-year-old great-grandmother Betty Cooper.

Huggett, 37, a steel erector and part-time car dealer, was jailed for seven-and-a-half years after he admitted causing death by dangerous driving.

He was speeding in his BMW car when he hit Mrs Cooper in Westbury Street, Thornaby, on June 8, 2003.

It happened as she was being helped into a taxi by her son, Barry Cooper, and his wife Patricia, following a party to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary.

The couple also suffered severe injuries and were left with lifelong disabilities.

Mr Cooper's pelvis was broken in four places and his leg broken, while his wife's ankle was broken in two places, as well as her pelvis, coccyx and knee.

She had to have 98 stitches and two plates put in her other knee as well as 90 stitches in her head. She has had to undergo several operations.

Earlier this month, the Cooper family were told that balding Huggett - named by Cleveland Police on their most wanted list - had been seen on Teesside disguising his appearance by wearing a wig.

But the manhunt ended after police raided a house in Centenary Crescent, Norton, near Stockton, on Saturday, at 5pm.

Inspector Mick Little, of Cleveland Police, said: "We are very pleased to have caught him. Officers received some information and acted upon it. It's been an international hunt which has gone on some time."

It is believed Huggett did not struggle with officers during his arrest.

He went on the run from Wealston prison, near Wetherby, West Yorkshire, nine months into his sentence. At one point he was reported to have been seen in Spain and was being tracked by Interpol.

Huggett appeared before Teesside magistrates yesterday charged with escaping lawful custody. He was remanded in custody by magistrates and will appear before Teesside Crown Court next Tuesday.