Taupo Police seek escaped prisoner

On the 21st of February 2012, Jamie Paamu HUGHES escaped from Tongariro Rangipo Prison.

He absconded from a work party after hot wiring and stealing a work vehicle.

This vehicle was recovered a few hours later in Taupo.

HUGHES is a male Maori of slight build, 170cm tall, weighing approximately 60kg. He has the name 'Leilani' tattooed on the right side of his neck. He has short dark hair.

He was sighted in Taupo on 21st February 2012 wearing black trousers, a black long sleeved shirt and a blue hoody.

HUGHES has associates in Taupo and Rotorua and could be travelling in the Central North Island region.

He was serving a prison sentence at Tongariro Rangipo Prison after being convicted of assaulting his partner in late 2010.

If HUGHES is seen he should not be approached and you should contact the nearest police.

Police also urge Taupo locals to be vigilant with their security, especially around their vehicles.

Any sightings or information, please contact your local police or call Taupo Police 07 3786060.