An investigation into the escape from custody of an inmate during a hospital visit has concluded.
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Matthew Furner was in custody during his visit to the Port Macquarie Base Hospital in August 2019 when he escaped.
Furner was seeking medical treatment for injuries to his neck.
The inmate led police on a day-long manhunt before he was recaptured near Frederickton later that evening.
A Local Area Health spokesperson said no staff were injured during Furner's escape from custody.
"In relation to the incident at the Port Macquarie Base Hospital on August 25, 2019, no staff were injured and appropriate security measures were initiated to minimise risk to staff, patients and visitors," the spokesperson said.
A Corrective Services NSW spokeswoman says overall inmate escapes are in decline.
"The incident has been thoroughly investigated by the Corrective Services NSW Investigations Branch," the spokeswoman said.
"An initial review by management at the Mid-North Coast Correctional Centre has resulted in updated security measures including improved risk assessments of inmate transfers and enhanced communication between prison staff and the hospital staff and security.
"Tougher security, better staff training and increased patrols have resulted in a sharp decline in inmate escapes in recent years, despite a substantial increase in the overall inmate population.
"In 2017-18 there were 11 escapes by inmates in our custody.
"In 2018-19 there were 12 escapes and in 2019-20 there were eight escapes," the spokeswoman said.
Furner was sentenced to 18 months' in prison after pleading guilty to a range of charges relating to his escape when he fronted court in August 2020.
He was also convicted of, assaulting officers, common assault, taking a motor vehicle without the consent of the owner; two counts of larceny and entering enclosed lands, driving dangerously during a police pursuit; driving recklessly in a manner dangerous; driving while disqualified; and driving a car with false number plates.
Court documents tabled at the hearing reveal the extent of Furner's remorse.
"I'd done the most stupid thing in my life. I don't know why I did that," he said in the documents.
"I think about it and kick myself for doing that.
"I feel so sorry for what I did."
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