Murder Suspect Flees Jail, Gets Lyft Ride to Florida

Three inmates, one of whom was detained on a murder charge, absconded from the DeKalb County Jail near Atlanta, utilizing jail phones to coordinate their escape. Authorities reported that the individuals compromised a portion of a cell to facilitate their breakout, which was discovered early on Monday during a routine check. The jail sheriff described the facility as aging and deteriorating, expressing concerns about its infrastructure.

Investigators learned of the escapees' plan by listening to recordings of their calls, revealing they contacted outside associates. These individuals assisted the inmates, providing transportation to a girlfriend's home before arranging a Lyft ride that took them to Florida. The Lyft driver involved was reportedly traumatized by the experience. All three inmates, aged 24 to 31, have since been apprehended in South Florida by the U.S. Marshals Service.

The inmate facing the murder charge, 24-year-old Stevenson Charles, has a history of legal troubles in both Georgia and Florida, including previous convictions for kidnapping and bank robbery. He had been transferred to DeKalb County on December 5 to face the murder charge. The other two escapees were facing charges including armed robbery and arson.