A 35-year-old man has been charged after he allegedly escaped police custody on Thursday.
The inmate, who escaped from hospital in Newcastle on Thursday was arrested around 3.30pm at Westfield Kotara.
Police launched a large-scale search around 2.30pm around Croudace Street at New Lambton Heights to find the man, who was being treated under guard by officers from Corrective Services NSW, absconded from John Hunter Hospital.
The search involved Newcastle City Police District, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, the Dog Unit and PolAir.
Just after 3pm, the man was arrested. He was taken to Newcastle Police Station where he was charged with escape lawful custody, enter prescribed premises of person without lawful excuse, and larceny.
He was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Friday.
Investigations are continuing and police would like to speak with any witnesses.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online
