HERE’S INFORMATION FROM IDOC’S TOM SHAER ON THE INMATE ESCAPE FROM VANDALIA PRISON:
Marcus Battice DOC mug
Please note IDOC can now confirm the following:
· At approximately 2:00 p.m. today (September 23, 2014), a minimum-security inmate escaped from minimum-security Vandalia Correctional Center
· This is the first such escape from an IDOC facility in years. More than a year ago, an inmate walked off grounds (“walkaway” escape) when working on-grounds, outside the fence at Robinson CC. This inmate today was inside the fence at Vandalia CC.
· Inmate name: Marcus Battice
· Inmate number: M14316
· Description: Black Male, 21 years of age, 167 lbs. (See more below, with photos)
· Offense: Non-violent offense; possession of stolen vehicle.
· Escape risk had been classified as very low. Not a likely escapee.
· Escape occurred at rear of property, when inmate was returning from commissary. Specifics of incident are being investigated.
· Search being coordinated by Illinois State Police and IDOC. Fayette County Sheriff and local law enforcement involved.
· Dogs from Fayette County Sheriff being used.
· Inmate last seen wearing dark blue shirt, dark pants. All clothing prison-issue-type. Also wearing white tennis shoes.
· ADDING: While this man was not incarcerated for a violent offense, the public should exercise extreme caution with any escapee and, if sighted, contact law enforcement. Do not attempt to make contact with the escapee.