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Inmates escape from Georgia jail and flee to Florida

Dec 22, 2025, 11:09 AM60
(Update: Dec 23, 2025, 7:56 PM)
state of the United States of America
city in Macon County, Illinois, United States

Inmates escape from Georgia jail and flee to Florida

  • Three inmates escaped from the DeKalb County Jail in Decatur, Georgia, during a routine security check.
  • The escapees managed to contact friends outside to arrange a Lyft ride to Florida.
  • They were captured less than 24 hours later, raising concerns about jail security.
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Story

In the early hours of December 21, 2025, three inmates escaped from the DeKalb County Jail located in Decatur, Georgia. This facility is situated approximately 10 miles east of downtown Atlanta. The escape was discovered during a routine security check, prompting an immediate investigation by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Service. The inmates involved were identified as 24-year-old Stevenson Charles, who was serving time for serious charges including murder and armed robbery; 31-year-old Yusuf Minor, facing multiple armed robbery charges; and 25-year-old Naod Yohannes, charged with arson and other violent offenses. Authorities were alerted about their escape when jail staff realized they were missing.Sheriff Melody M. Maddox emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging the public to remain cautious as the fugitives were considered dangerous and possibly armed. Following their escape, investigators uncovered that the inmates had utilized jail phones to contact individuals on the outside for assistance. They managed to get a Lyft ride after being picked up by an acquaintance and subsequently traveled to South Florida. An extensive manhunt ensued, but within approximately 24 hours of their escape, the trio was apprehended. In the meantime, the local sheriff's office assessed the conditions of the jail and recognized security flaws that allowed the escape to happen, leading to immediate repairs and a review of the premises to prevent future incidents. Given the nature of the charges against the escapees, including murder and armed robbery, it raised significant concerns regarding the integrity of the jail system. This incident, while alarming, is not entirely isolated as it reflects ongoing issues within the prison system and the need for enhanced security measures in correctional facilities nationwide.

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