Sightings of escaped prisoner sought

Police are appealing for any sightings of 48 year old Lex Miller who escaped from Turangi's Rangipo Prison last Thursday 25 August.

The officer in charge of the operation, Detective Senior Sergeant Todd Pearce from Taupo Police, says Police have received reports of one sighting of MILLER between Turangi and Taupo on Thursday afternoon, but they haven't yet been able to locate him.

MILLER left the Rangipo Prison at approximately 2:15pm on Thursday afternoon after stealing a car from a Prison carpark. That car is a 1994 Silver Toyota Camry Sedan, with the registration TC7281.

The Taupo District Court has since issued a warrant for MILLER's arrest, covering charges relating to his escape from custody, as well as the theft of the car.

Detective Senior Sergeant Pearce says MILLER has family connections in Eastern Bay of Plenty, particularly Whakatane, however, Police are keeping an open mind as to his whereabouts.

"He may have headed to the Eastern Bay of Plenty, but equally he could be in another part of New Zealand and it's important that we canvas a wide area.

"In order to narrow this down, we are seeking any information from the public about MILLER's whereabouts, including any possible sightings of him or the car he was believed to be driving when he left the Prison.

"MILLER was imprisoned for serious criminal offences and is considered dangerous. As such, we are very keen to locate and apprehend him as soon as possible."

Detective Senior Sergeant Pearce says Police are working with MILLER's extended family and acquaintances to try and establish his whereabouts.

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.

"If anyone has any information about MILLER or the car that he was driving on Thursday 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."

ENDS

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