Wellington, Nov 27 NZPA - Taffy Hotene, one of New Zealand's most notorious sexual offenders, has been found dead in Wanganui Prison.

The Corrections Department today confirmed Hotene died in custody yesterday afternoon.

In October 2000 Hotene received a 18-year non-parole life sentence for murdering Auckland journalist Kylie Jones, and preventive detention for raping her.

"Staff provided medical assistance but were unable to revive the prisoner," department assistant general manager operations Leanne Field said.

"He was pronounced dead when ambulance staff arrived a short time later .

"The prisoner's death is not considered suspicious, however the coroner will investigate and confirm the circumstances."

As with all deaths in custody, a review would be undertaken by the independent Corrections Inspectorate, which is monitored by the Office of the Ombudsmen.

"While this is under way, and the death is subject to the coroner's inquest, the department is unable to comment further."

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