Inmate Mistakenly Released from Columbus County Detention Center Located and Returned to Custody

Sheriff’s Office launches internal review after erroneous release and swift apprehension

WHITEVILLE, NC — A Robeson County inmate who was mistakenly released from the Columbus County Detention Center after falsely identifying himself as another inmate has been located and returned to custody, according to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff’s officials said the release was discovered shortly after it occurred. Personnel immediately initiated a coordinated response, deploying significant resources and working continuously until the inmate was apprehended.

The Sheriff’s Office said the incident is being treated with “the utmost seriousness.” A comprehensive internal investigation is underway to determine how the release happened and what procedural failures may have contributed. Officials said all actions and processes involved will be reviewed, and any necessary accountability measures will follow once the investigation is complete.

Amid widespread public discussion, the Sheriff’s Office emphasized several confirmed points:

– The mistaken release was identified.
– Immediate action was taken.
– The inmate was located.
– He is now securely in custody.

Sheriff W. A. Rogers said the agency stands behind the deputies, detention officers, and investigators who responded quickly to ensure public safety.

“Public safety remains our highest priority,” the Sheriff’s Office said, noting that additional information will be released when appropriate.

Information in this report is based on an official statement from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.