A Taranaki inmate remained on the loose today, three days after escaping from New Plymouth Prison.
The escape was Stratford man Frank James Walker's second in 11 days and authorities believed a troubled love-life could be behind his actions.
They said Walker, who was not classed as dangerous, had a partner, who visited him regularly at the prison, and a small baby.
The 21-year-old had only months to go on a one-year sentence for burglary, but after breaking out through a skylight in his cell now faces having 12 months added to his term.
Prison manager Lance Kennedy said he didn't know of any other inmate who had escaped with such a short period of time still to serve.
"He must be desperate when he only had three months to go," he said. "We are assuming he has got (personal) problems."
Walker was described as Maori, 1.88m tall, of slim build, with black hair that was curly on top.
He previously escaped on June 15 with another inmate. Both were found the next day hiding in a farm house.
- NZPA
Search continues for 'houdini' inmate
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.