Desperate search underway for Australian convict released from prison after 'administrative error'

A desperate search is underway for a man who was released from a correctional facility in Sydney, Australia by mistake.

Corey Hastings, aged 30, left Long Bay Correctional Complex in Matraville about 1 p.m. on Thursday after an “administrative error.”

He was last seen at a shopping center in Eastgardens just before 3 p.m., police said.

Officers from Eastern Beaches Police Area Command are conducting an extensive search to try and find Hastings who was on remand on dangerous driving and other related charges.

Corey Hastings, 30, left Long Bay Correctional Complex near Sydney due to an "administrative error" following a court appearance, according to officials. — Corey Hastings, 30, left Long Bay Correctional Complex near Sydney due to an “administrative error” following a court appearance, according to officials. Long Bay correctional centre

Hastings is described as being caucasian, 6 foot 3 inches tall, with a heavy build and red hair.

He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt with stripes.

Police believe he may be traveling by public transport and have asked any members of the public who spot him not to approach but contact triple 0 immediately.

A Corrective Services NSW spokesperson told 9News they were investigating the error.

“CSNSW staff are required to follow detailed procedures when processing inmate detention, sentencing decisions and releases from custody,” they said.

“The release was due to an administration error following a court appearance.”

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.