Man escapes court after leaping from dock

Security staff chase a man who escaped from the Tauranga District Court today. Photo/John Borren

A manhunt is underway in Tauranga after a man appearing in court for wounding with intent jumped out of the dock and took off.

Cohen Ratcliffe, 27, appeared in the Tauranga District Court charged with wounding with intent. He entered a not guilty plea and was remanded in custody when he leapt from the dock and fled.

Police officers and court security staff chased Ratcliffe but soon lost sight of him.

Police are hunting for Cohen Ratcliffe. Photo / Supplied

Police have received a couple of sightings of him still in the central Tauranga area but at this stage he has not been located.

He was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and black pants,

Anyone who sees Ratcliffe should call 111 immediately.

Anyone who has any information other information that will assist police in location Ratcliffe is asked to contact Tauranga police on 07 577 4300.

Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.