Police officers have arrested and charged a man who allegedly escape police custody on Wednesday evening following a visit to Belmont hospital.
The man was originally arrested in the early hours of Wednesday morning for offences of police pursuit, disqualified driver, breach AVO, breach of bail and driving unregistered vehicle.
Police said he appeared before Newcastle court via audio visual link from Belmont.
He was refused bail by the court and, after returning to Belmont Police Station, complained of a medical condition, police said.
He was taken to Belmont hospital and seen by medical staff members.
About 6.30pm, he left the hospital, with officers escorting him to the police vehicle to take him back to the station.
Police said he was in handcuffs but, following a struggle with officers, was able to break free and run away.
A police operation to find him again commenced and involved two dog squad units.
At 7.40pm, he was found allegedly hiding in bush land near Belmont hospital.
Police then arrested him and took him back to Belmont Police Station.
He was charged with an additional charge of escaping custody, and is due to appear at Newcastle court on Thursday via audio visual link.
