Carroll County authorities have confirmed the recapture of inmate David Emsley Wheeles, who escaped from a monitored work detail yesterday. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Wheeles was reported missing around 3:30 p.m. near Temple after an officer noticed his absence during a headcount.
Officials have not released details on how Wheeles escaped or whether he received assistance. 11Alive reported that residents were urged to stay alert while he was on the run. Wheeles, 36, is described as 6 feet 4 inches tall, weighing 175 pounds, with a mustache and goatee—features that may have helped in identifying him quickly.
Wheeles was serving a sentence for trafficking methamphetamine and making terrorist threats, among other offenses, since September 14, 2023. His original release date was set for May 1, 2038. Authorities shared photos of him from the Georgia Department of Corrections and his work detail ID badge to aid in his capture.
An investigation is underway to determine how Wheeles managed to escape and whether additional charges will be filed.
