Warrants issued for escaped prisoner's arrest

The Taupo District Court has issued a warrant for the arrest of 48 year old Lex Miller who escaped from Tongariro – Rangipo Prison (near Turangi), at about 2:15pm on Thursday 25 August.

Detective Senior Sergeant Todd Pearce says Taupo Police sought the warrant from the court today.

He says the warrant covers charges relating to his escape from custody, as well as the theft of a car.

MILLER left the prison yesterday afternoon and is believed to be driving a 1994 Silver Toyota Camry Sedan, with the registration TC7281.

MILLER is European, aged 48 years and is approximately 173cm tall (5foot8). He has short, sandy brown hair. He was last seen wearing a tan coloured shirt, blue jeans and white sports shoes, however, he may have changed clothes since then.

Detective Senior Sergeant Pearce says Police are appealing for any information relating to MILLER's whereabouts, or any sightings of the car he was believed to be driving yesterday.

"MILLER has family connections in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, and particularly Whakatane, but we are keeping an open mind about his whereabouts.

"We are working with MILLER's extended family and acquaintances to try and establish his whereabouts, but sightings by members of the public could be critical in trying to pinpoint his location.

"If anyone has any information about MILLER or the car that he was driving yesterday afternoon, please call us immediately on 111 or contact any local Police Station. People can also provide information anonymously if necessary via the independent Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111."

Detective Senior Sergeant Pearce says MILLER is considered dangerous and should not be approached.

"If you see him or his car, please call 111 immediately."