In a surprising turn of events, Robert Yancy Jr., a 39-year-old inmate life-sentenced for continuous sexual abuse of a child, managed to briefly taste freedom after his mother aided in his escape from Clemens Unit in Brazoria County. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice officials told FOX26 Houston that during a visit, Yancy's mother, Leonor Priestle, provided a hoody and fake I.D., which her son used to confidently walk out the prison's doors.
The escape initiated a wide-reaching manhunt, intensifying as Texas authorities worked to quickly locate and return Yancy to custody. According to information obtained by Hoodline, the fugitive was last seen in a stolen white Nissan Versa with the license plate DNR9145. Yancy had donned a nondescript black beanie and sweater as part of his getaway attire. Authorities strongly discouraged the public from attempting to approach Yancy, instead urging that any sighting should be reported immediately to law enforcement.
This prison break saga reached its conclusion when police in Victoria arrested Priestle during a traffic stop Sunday night, as reported by FOX26 Houston. Yancy himself was taken into custody the following morning in Matagorda County. Along with Priestle, her boyfriend, Russell Williams, was also arrested during the incident.
The Brazoria County Sheriff's Office later stated on Facebook, "All information obtained at this point leads us to believe Yancy is no longer in Brazoria County." The Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the Brazoria County Sheriff's Office provided a stern warning against approaching Yancy, labeling his history indicative of potential danger. Incentives for information leading to Yancy's capture were offered, with a call for anonymous tips to the Office of Inspector General.
