THE victim of a repeat fraudster has criticised prison chiefs after it emerged a “serial escaper” had been released on leave - and then fled.

THE victim of a repeat fraudster has criticised prison chiefs after it emerged a “serial escaper” had been released on leave - and then fled.

David Aves, from Bury St Edmunds, hit the headlines more than 10 years ago when he arranged for fake release forms to be faxed to him and walked out of Norwich Prison.

Earlier this year, the 50-year-old serial conman was jailed for two years for a £28,000 scam involving registration plates. The scam, which involved coaxing a buyer into parting with thousands of pounds for five registration plates, only one of which was registered with the DVLA, was perpetrated while Aves was on day release from Hollesley Bay working in an Oxfam shop in Ipswich.

But earlier this week, it emerged Aves had once again fled custody, again from Hollesley Bay, after being allowed temporary leave from the Category D Woodbridge jail to stay with a relative.

His most recent victim, who asked not to be named said he could not believe the prison service had once again given Aves leave from prison.

He said: “I don't know how he keeps getting away with it. It is an absolute joke. It is very strange that they keep letting him out on release - in fact, it is amazing. He's a serial escaper.”

A spokesman for the Ministry of Justice would not comment on the circumstances of his temporary release. He said: “All absconders are immediately reported to the police and absconders can be charged with a criminal offence - a number of prisoners who absconded and were caught have subsequently received additional custodial sentences."

Aves was given temporary leave home to stay with a relative near Bury St Edmunds earlier this month. He was meant to return last Friday at 3.30pm but did not appear.

A Suffolk Police spokeswoman confirmed the force was still searching for him. He is white, 6ft 4ins, with brown hair and blue eyes.

Anyone who may have seen him, or who may have information about where he is now, should call Suffolk Police on 01473 613500 or contact their nearest police station.