18 Apr 2011

Inmate who fled Rimutaka jail captured

4:14 pm on 18 April 2011

Police in Lower Hutt have found an inmate who escaped from Rimutaka Prison on Sunday night.

Joey Falau Vanilau escaped about 8.30pm after climbing two four-metre fences topped with razor wire.

Area Commander for Upper Hutt, Inspector Mike Hill, says Vanilau was found about 1pm at a house in Wainuiomata.

The 25-year-old has been charged with escaping custody and will appear in the Upper Hutt District Court on Monday afternoon.

Inspector Hill says Vanilau has multiple cuts as well as an injured leg. He has been seen by a police doctor and his injuries are not serious.

The Department of Corrections could not say what sentence Vanilau is serving. An investigation into his escape would be held.