Man who fled from police in hospital gown and handcuffs faces theft and fleeing charges

Piripi Springhall faces two charges after fleeing police custody on Sunday while being treated at Waikato Hospital. Photo / Supplied

A man who fled police custody at Waikato Hospital wearing a blue gown and handcuffs faces two charges including escaping from police custody.

Piripi Harris Springhall sparked a police hunt after he disappeared from the hospital wearing the gown and cuffs just before 5pm on Sunday.

He had been escorted by police to Waikato Hospital to be treated for a medical condition after being arrested earlier that day.

The 30-year-old labourer was caught by police later that night and faces one charge of stealing a pair of handcuffs and prisoner escort belt and another charge of escaping from custody.

He was due to appear at Hamilton District Court on Monday.

The maximum fine for escaping custody is five years' imprisonment.