A LAUNCESTON bank robber has appeared in court facing a raft of charges relating to an alleged prison escape on Monday. Marcus Denis Mayne, 27, has been charged with escape, assault, aggravated burglary, stealing and destroying property. Police allege he made a mad dash for freedom from the prison's minimum security division at 8.30am on Monday. They say Mayne absconded from the prison under a roller door, allegedly armed with a carving knife. Police allege Mayne accosted a 16-year-old boy during his getaway attempt, but later released the youth unharmed. Mayne was nabbed less than two hours after his prison break, allegedly attempting a marine getaway. His recapture followed a large scale manhunt, including about 50 officers. Mayne was not required to enter pleas at Monday's court appearance. He will remain in custody before facing court again on October 21.
