Now homicide team searches for Leeds man missing since Christmas

Despite a number of appeals and months of investigative work, officers have been unable to trace the 36-year-old.

With fears growing for Mr Shann’s safety the investigation is now being looked into by West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team.

Mr Shann was last seen on December 10 last year after leaving a relative’s house in the East End Park area of Leeds.

Earlier in the day he withdrew just over £100 from his bank account at the Vicar Lane branch of Barclays to buy Christmas presents for his family.

Analysis of the bank account shows there has been no further activity since December 10 despite additional funds being available later the same month.

Mr Shann is described as white, around 5ft 6”, slim build, with blue eyes and speaks with a local accent.

He also has his initials ‘JS’ tattooed on his right shoulder and was a well-known face within central Leeds.

Det Insp Martin Hepworth said: “We are concerned for Joseph’s safety and I would ask people to look at the photograph and get in touch with us if they have any information.

“Joseph’s family are understandably distressed by what’s happened and it’s very out of character for him to be out of touch for such a long period of time.

“If anyone has any information about Joseph, no matter how insignificant you feel it may be, please come forward and speak to us.

“This can be done anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by calling the on 0845 6060 606.”