Gang member found in wardrobe

A Waikato Black Power member who tattooed "Property of Leon" across the face of his former partner before killing her has been found hiding in a wardrobe.

Police arrested Leon Colin Wilson, 42, at a Huntly address overnight.

He had breached his parole conditions and was sought by police, who yesterday warned he could be in the upper North Island.

Huntly Sub-Area Manager, Senior Sergeant Pete Simpson, credited support from the public for the arrest.

"Police received information from the public yesterday following widespread media coverage that he was wanted, officers went to the address and found the man hiding in a wardrobe.

"There is no doubt the prompt relaying of information played a major part in the recapture of this man and it is a good example of the police and the community being able to work together to achieve a successful outcome."

Wilson stabbed Leonie Newman to death in 1995 and was sentenced to life in jail with a minimum of 10 years before he was eligible for parole.

- Herald Online staff