More jail time for Darwin man after violent prison escape

A man currently serving 11 years in jail after an ice fuelled crime spree in 2015, will spend an extra two years behind bars after escaping custody and leading police on a chase through Top End streets.

Aaron Hyde, 22, was being transported from Royal Darwin Hospital back to Darwin Correctional Centre in April 2018, when he hit a corrections guard in the chin and fled.

He stole keys and a car from a home nearby the hospital, and led police through the streets of Palmerston for more than an hour.

"It's one thing to escape custody, it's another to go on and keep committing offences," Justice Jenny Blokland told the court in sentencing on Wednesday.

"I accept it was spontaneous and low level violence, but (the guard) shouldn't have to put up with conduct like this."

Hyde was caught driving at 130km/hr in an 80 zone through Palmerston, with his arms still handcuffed together as he drove.

He claimed he was trying to get to the family of Ashley Richards, who was killed in the 2015 crash, to apologise.

Justice Blokland did not accept his excuse.

"It was a miracle no one was injured or worse.. Something Aaron Hyde knows full well is something that can happen," she told the court.

The court heard Hyde has been involved in 151 incidents while behind bars, although the Crown conceded he'd simply been present, but not taken part in some.

His behaviour in jail has been "up and down" and at times Hyde has participated fully in work, but has also been involved in misconduct.

"His prospects of rehabilitation are low," said Crown Prosecutor, Damien Jones.

"This was just so dangerous.. it's exactly the type of offending that caused the death of his friend."

Hyde's defence lawyer, Julia Ker, told the court her client hadn't had any access to counselling or psychological help behind bars and his poor emotional state at the time he escaped custody had a significant influence on his decision making.

Hyde's 11 year sentence was increased to 13, after he pleaded guilty to four charges including escape from lawful custody, unlawful entry, stealing and driving dangerously.

He'll be eligible for parole in 2022.