National

Search on for prison escapee in Tasmania

By AAP Newswire

Feb 12, 2022

Police tape — Hobart police are searching for a prison escapee they say may have experience living in the bush. -AAP Image

The search for a prisoner who escaped while receiving medical treatment in Hobart is in its second day, with police wary that the man has experience living in the bush.

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Dale Howlett left Royal Hobart Hospital about 3.30pm on Friday, triggering a major police operation to locate him.

"Significant police resources, including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, have been deployed in the search," Tasmania Police said.

Howlett has experience living in the bush and could try to acquire clothing, a mobile phone and other supplies, a spokesman told the Hobart Mercury.

Hobart residents have been urged to monitor their belongings and report missing items to police.

Howlett is 185cm tall and is believed to be wearing maroon track pants and a grey t-shirt.

He has tattoos on the back of both calves, two full sleeve tattoos on his arms and tattoos on both sides of his neck. Police say he may not be wearing shoes.

He is not considered a risk to the public.

Anyone who sees Howlett is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers Tasmania.

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press