CCSO in Search of Inmate Who Absconded From Work Detail

Inmate Flees from Carter County Detention Center

Butler, Carter County – Carter County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) is on an active manhunt for an inmate who disappeared from his assigned jail work detail on Thursday. Billy Fletcher, a 43-year old inmate from Butler, managed to elude the security of the facility and abscond from the Carter County Detention Center grounds during his assigned work detail.

The CCSO team noticed his absence during routine checks on his assigned work area. A search of the premises was undertaken immediately when Fletcher’s absence was detected, concluding that he had absconded from the facility. An active search has been launched in and around Carter County, aiming to apprehend Fletcher at the earliest.

Criminal History of Absconded Inmate

Fletcher was first admitted to Carter County Detention Center in August 2024, following a probation violation. He was sentenced to a three-year term, suggesting a serious nature of the commitment offense. The specific details of his original crime have not been revealed. Fletcher’s unexpected escape has added to his list of offenses, and subsequent charges are expected once he is apprehended.

Physical Description of Billy Fletcher

Fletcher, a white male, is roughly 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs around 230 pounds. He is known for his distinctive physical attributes, including multiple tattoos on both arms. The specific designs and details of these tattoos have not been released to the public as yet. The CCSO believes that public vigilance could be crucial in locating Fletcher, reminding citizens that harboring a known fugitive can also carry significant legal penalties.

Public Assistance Requested

Residents of Carter County, and indeed anyone who might have relevant information, are requested to bring it to the attention of the Carter County Sheriff’s Office. The authorities can be reached at 423-542-1845. It is stressed that any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could be pivotal in apprehending Fletcher and ensuring the safety of the community.

While no reports have suggested Fletcher is armed or immediately dangerous, the local community is urged to exercise caution, particularly in remote areas, whilst the search operation is ongoing. It is important not only to fulfill our community responsibility but also to prevent other potential incidents.

Investigation in Process

The incident shines a light on potential security gaps at the Carter County Detention Center. An internal investigation is likely to follow, examining the circumstances under which Fletcher was able to escape, and potential measures are likely to be put in place to prevent future occurrences. It is urged at this time that the focus remains on locating Fletcher and ensuring the safety of the local community.

Charges Pending

CCSO has confirmed that charges are pending and that the full extent of legal action will be taken once Fletcher is apprehended. Residents are reminded again that any subsequent aid to Fletcher post-escape would also invoke criminal charges.