Another prisoner escapes electronic bracelet

Michael George Mulligan. Photo / NZ Police

Another prisoner is on the run after cutting off his electronic bracelet.

Southland police were last night hunting for Michael George Mulligan, who is 30 years old and 169cm tall.

Police have issued a warrant for his arrest after he removed the bracelet, which he was ordered to wear as part of his bail conditions.

Mulligan was charged with wounding a Timaru meat worker in 2008 after attacking him with a knife during a fight. He admitted causing some of the wounds but denied responsibility for others.

His victim, Turere Timo, said he was hospitalised overnight, having received three cuts to his lower back, one to his neck, one to the back of his head and one to his arm.

In 2012 Mulligan was sentenced to three months' home detention for assaulting his sister.

Last week it emerged that 18 prisoners were currently without their electronic bracelets, after a report that five criminals serving community-based sentences or on electronic monitoring were on the run after cutting off their ankle bracelets.

Prime Minister John Key admitted he was "a little bit surprised" to learn how many prisoners had "slipped" their electronic monitoring bracelets and were on the loose.

Corrections assistant northern commissioner Alastair Riach said alarms were raised immediately if bracelets were cut.

"We know who they are. Police will be prioritising, depending on the risk, the effort they will put into locating these people."

Convicted child-sex offender David Livingstone was caught this month after he cut off his bracelet.

Last year Tony Robertson murdered and raped North Shore woman Blessie Gotingco while on monitored release for child-sex offending.

There are 3232 offenders on the electronic monitoring system introduced in February - 1832 are also monitored via a real-time GPS system.

Invercargill police are urging anyone with information to contact them on their Facebook or by calling (03) 211 0400.

Information can also be left anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. or by calling (03) 211 0400.