MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WTVF) — A Rutherford County inmate sought by law enforcement after leaving a work detail along John Bragg Highway Monday afternoon was found by deputies later that evening after an extensive search and taken into custody.
Joseph Beard, 43, of Dickson, was picking up trash when he walked away from the work crew, according to Capt. Jason Smitty of the Rutherford County Correctional Work Center. Beard was working in the 8800 block of John Bragg Highway when he escaped around 3:31 p.m.
Beard was serving time for violation of probation and was scheduled to be released on August 24, according to the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies searched the area with K9 units and drones, while the Tennessee Highway Patrol's helicopter crew assisted the search effort.
Beard is expected to be charged with escape and is being held at the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center, according to the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office.
The sheriff's office thanked the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Cannon County Sheriff's Department, and Murfreesboro Police Department for their assistance in the effort to capture Beard.
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I'm so thankful Robb Coles highlighted the Kamer Davis clinic in Hermitage and the hardship that may force its closure. The clinic provides care for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities and there is no other place like it nearby. You can tell the staff is so passionate about the care they provide. I hope by shining the light on this, the right person can step in and make a difference.
- Carrie Sharp
