Review into escape from Rimutaka Prison reveals flaws in Corrections' practice

A review into how a convict managed to escape from prison has revealed a series of failures in how he was transported by the Department of Corrections. 

Ricky Wilson escaped from a van while being transported from hospital back to Rimutaka Prison on May 10. 

Lower North Regional Commissioner of Corrections Paula Collins told Newshub the daring escape was possible due to a number of mistakes.

"He managed to open the door of the vehicle and jump out while moving. The force of his movement broke the chain of the cuffs which attached him to one of two escorting officers."

Wilson had also managed to remove his electronic tracking bracelet. Although police began the search for him immediately he was not found until the following day.

"The review identified poor local practice in terms of the choice of vehicle used for the escort and the type of cuffs used," Collins continued.

The van used by Corrections was not secure enough and the handcuffs should have been on a shorter chain. 

"This incident was unacceptable and this should not have occurred."

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As a result of the review 14 recommendations have been made - all of which will be implemented.

Among those changes is the need for a senior member of staff to check all escorts before they leave the prison and the withdrawal of all lighter long handcuffs.

"Rimutaka Prison had two types of long-cuffs with two different chain thicknesses," said Collins.

"The long-cuffs used that broke were the type with the lighter chain. The prison director is ensuring that heavier chain long-cuffs are always available for use when required, for example during medical escorts."

All staff will also undergo training on how to properly escort prisoners. Training will begin on July 1 2020.

"We are committed to upholding public safety and have taken immediate action to prevent a similar incident happening again."