A Florida prisoner with a lengthy criminal history escaped from a work-release program on Thursday and is currently nowhere to be found, according to authorities.
Inmate Anthony Ray Barnes was last seen at the intersection of Mobile Highway and Boulder Street in Bellview where he was assigned to hold traffic signs, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office said.
Barnes returned to the Florida Department of Corrections at 2:04 p.m., officials said. However, at 6:37 p.m., it was discovered that Barnes had removed his ankle monitor and fled.
Barnes returned to the Florida Department of Corrections at 2:04 p.m., officials said. However, at 6:37 p.m., it was discovered that Barnes had managed to remove his ankle monitor and fled.
Investigators described Barnes as a white male, standing 6 feet, one inch tall, and weighing 215 pounds. He has brown hair, blue eyes, and multiple facial tattoos. The sheriff said he may be wearing high visibility L30 jacket, though it is unlikely.
Barnes’ extensive criminal history includes battery, drug violations, and burglary. He is currently serving time for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and fleeing and eluding from Santa Rosa County.
Authorities asked anyone with information about Barnes’ whereabouts to call Crime Stoppers at 850-433-STOP or the sheriff’s office at 850-436-9620.
