Police Serching for Darren Higgins

Police are searching for a patient who's escaped from a Central Victorian psychiatric facility.

Authorities say 25 year old Darren Higgins was on approved leave when he jumped in the Murray River - swimming to the other side and was sighted in the Barmah Forest, North East of Echuca.

Higgins is currently completing a 12 month treatment order for assault and property offences.

If people recognise Darren Higgins in the image released by Victoria Police, they're advised not to approach him and dial Triple 0.