ST. JOHNSBURY, Vt. (AP) — A Vermont man has escaped jury duty — by getting dismissed for wearing a prisoner costume.

James Lowe of Barnet says he was released from jury duty on Tuesday when he showed up to court wearing a black-and-white-striped jumpsuit with a matching beanie.

The Caledonian Record (http://bit.ly/1QKMx6S ) reports that Lowe showed up on time and joined other prospective jurors before the start of the selection process. Deputies directed him to an empty courtroom to meet with the judge, who told him to leave.

Lowe says the judge told him he could've been found in contempt of court. That could've meant a fine or jail time.

Lowe says the juror instructions don't restrict clothing, but that he's happy to be released because of his work schedule and family obligations.

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Information from: The Caledonian-Record, http://www.caledonianrecord.com