DEAN Robert Merrick, who was wanted Canada-wide for failing to return to his halfway house, was recognized by a citizen who reported him to police.

Vancouver Police soon located Merrick and he is currently in custody.

Merrick, 58, is serving an 18-year sentence for sexual offences. He had been living at a halfway house in the Downtown Eastside after being released from jail on a long-term supervision order.

Shortly before 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday morning, Merrick left the halfway house to attend an appointment on Commercial Drive. He failed to return, and a Canada-wide warrant was issued for his arrest.