Further two-year term for escaper

Press, 29 June 1982, Page 13

Further two-year term for escaper

PA Auckland A man who admitted committing 36 burglaries during the six months he was at large after escaping from prison has been sentenced in the District Court at Auckland to a further two years imprisonment.

Paul Owen Ibbetson, aged 20. unemployed, of Rangipo Prison Farm, appeared before Judge Nicholson.

Ibbetson had earlier pleaded guilty to 36 charges of burglary, two of attempted burglary. 11 of unlawfully taking motorvehicles. and one of escaping from the Rangipo Prison Farm.. Mr Graeme Haise, counsel for Ibbetson, said that the offences were committed to supplement Ibbetson's lifestyle.

Ibbetson had. decided to escape from Rangipo Prison Farm, and once he had done so decided to try to stay on the run for as long as possible. Ibbetson had said that he knew he would eventually be caught, but saw no point in giving himself up after committing further offences.

Mr Haise said that Ibbetson had co-operated fully with the police since hi’s apprehension, and had advised them of his activities throughout the North and South islands.

The Judge sentenced Ibbetson to 12 months jail on the escaping charge, and to two years jail on each of the remaining charges, all terms concurrent.

The term will take effect from the expiry of Ibbetson's present sentence.