Security Shaken in Charlton County (31537) : Inmate Escapes Georgia Prison Hidden in Cellmate’s Luggage – LIVE UPDATES

Charlton County (31537) — In a story that feels more like a movie plot than real life, a prisoner serving multiple felony sentences at D. Ray James Correctional Facility managed to escape custody by hiding inside his cellmate’s duffel bag during a scheduled release. The escape took place on Sunday, July 14, prompting an immediate multi-agency manhunt across southeastern Georgia. Authorities confirmed that the escaped inmate, 34-year-old Deonte Harris, had been convicted of armed robbery, aggravated assault, and unlawful possession of a firearm. His disappearance was only noticed during evening headcount.

Preliminary investigation reveals that Harris climbed inside the luggage of his soon-to-be-released cellmate, who may have acted knowingly or under coercion. The released individual exited the prison gates around 11:20 a.m., and was picked up by a third party—now being treated as a co-conspirator. Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) officials are calling it a “serious breach of protocol”, launching both internal and criminal investigations.

U.S. Marshals, GBI, and local law enforcement are actively pursuing leads. The public is urged not to approach Harris if spotted, as he is considered armed and dangerous.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Inmate escaped Folkston prison hiding in cellmate’s duffel bag

• IMPACT: One high-risk inmate on the run; GDC internal review underway

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “This was premeditated and exploited a release-day blind spot.” – Warden Tyrell Hayes

• ACTION: Call GDC or 911 if you see Deonte Harris; do not engage

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   Charlton County (31537) – D. Ray James Correctional Facility, near GA-40 and Twin Oaks Road

2. Community Connection:

   “We always knew someone would try something, but this? That’s wild.”
   – Calvin Reed, owner of Coffee & Crumbs off GA-40

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  This escape comes just weeks after the Georgia Department of Corrections was criticized for staffing shortages and camera outages across multiple state-run and contracted facilities. Security advocates say the incident underscores deeper flaws in oversight and release-day procedures, especially in private correctional facilities like D. Ray James, operated under federal contract.

Crisis Response

• IMMEDIATE RESOURCES:
  » GDC Tip Line: 1-800-436-5717 / gdc.ga.gov/tips
  » Charlton County Sheriff’s Dispatch: (912) 496-7321

• OFFICIAL GUIDANCE:

  “Do not engage the suspect. Call law enforcement immediately if you spot Harris.”
  – Sheriff Randy Miller, Charlton County Sheriff’s Office

Update Log

• 11:20 AM, July 14: Released inmate exits prison with luggage

• 2:00 PM: Deonte Harris reported missing during scheduled headcount

• 4:15 PM: GDC confirms escape method; manhunt initiated

• 6:00 PM: GDC and U.S. Marshals release updated photo of Harris

This incident has rattled both corrections officials and Folkston residents, highlighting urgent questions about oversight and coordination in Georgia’s correctional system. As the manhunt continues, authorities are calling on the public to remain alert—and vigilant.