Inmate Serving 18-Month Sentence for Drug Possession Escapes Custody, Apprehended in Lexington

LEXINGTON, KY — An inmate who was serving an 18-month sentence for drug possession has escaped custody and was later apprehended in Lexington on Tuesday. The inmate, identified as James Middleton, is now facing charges of second-degree escape.

Middleton was assigned to community transitional services when he left the parole office building in Louisville without authorization. This incident triggered a head count, during which authorities realized he was missing. A subsequent search led to his discovery in Lexington.

He was located near the intersection of Winchester Road and Patchen Wilkes Drive, where he was arrested. According to court documents, Middleton was set to be released in July 2024 if he had completed his sentence without incident.

The circumstances surrounding his escape remain under investigation, and local authorities are reviewing the protocols at the parole office to prevent similar incidents in the future.

This incident raises concerns about the management of inmates in transitional services, as those who are assigned to these programs are typically transitioning back into society under supervision. The successful apprehension of Middleton highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to maintain public safety.