11 February 2009
Police are warning members of the public not to approach an escaped inmate who escaped from a work party outside a North Waikato prison this morning.
Huntly Sub-Area Manager, Senior Sergeant Pete Simpson said the escaper, Storm Bryce HUGHES, 33, had an extensive violent criminal history in Australia and warned he should not be approached.
"He is understood to have fled the Springhill Correctional Facility near Te Kauwhata some time around 9.15am," said Mr Simpson.
"A minimum security inmate, HUGHES was working as a member of a building restoration party outside the prison wire but within the prison's property when he escaped."
HUGHES is described as a male Caucasian, of medium build, 171cm tall with short blond hair and various tattoos on his arms and back.
When last seen HUGHES was dressed in a blue denim jacket and a grey shirt and trousers.
A Police dog is currently working in the area of the prison and local residents are being asked to ensure any vehicles are secured on their properties.
"Given the nature of HUGHES' history of offending we are warning people he should not be approached.
"If you see anything suspicious in the area you should ring 111 immediately," said Mr Simpson.
HUGHES has previously lived in Australia and Tokoroa and has links to the Turangi area. Police are working with border control agencies and Corrections in an effort to recapture him.
End