Smith to appear in court by video link

Phillip John Smith was escorted by three police officers from Brazil back to NZ.

A murderer and child abuser who fled to South America while on a prison release will appear in Auckland District Court tomorrow by video link.

Phillip John Smith was deported from Brazil back to New Zealand on November 28 (Brazil time), escorted by three police officers.

Smith is charged with escaping lawful custody as well as false representation in relation to how he obtained his passport. He will appear in court on the two charges tomorrow, via audio visual link with Auckland Prison.

Smith was caught in Rio de Janeiro on November 13 a week after fleeing New Zealand while on temporary release from Spring Hill Corrections Facility in South Auckland. He was serving a life sentence for murder and other violent crimes.

Superintendent Richard Chambers said the Police investigation into Smith's activities in relation to his alleged offending was ongoing and further charges were possible.

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