Escape of Nevada Inmate Cut Short by Quick Police Response

A brief escape by a Nevada inmate ended swiftly, thanks to a coordinated manhunt and a helpful tip from a local resident, authorities reported.

Video footage from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office captured 23-year-old Chase Oput lying on railroad tracks without a shirt just before he was taken back into custody.

Oput had last been spotted moving southwest in a black and white striped prison uniform, prompting an intensive overnight search by law enforcement from Washoe and Story counties.

A nearby business owner recognized Oput near Interstate 80 and alerted the Sparks Police Department, which then used a drone to help locate him near mile marker 21.

Oput received medical assessment at the scene before being transported to the Washoe County Detention Center, where additional escape charges are anticipated.

Authorities noted that Oput was found around 1 p.m. on Tuesday, approximately 24 hours after he escaped the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office inmate task force around 1:30 p.m. on Monday.

The citizen’s tip significantly assisted law enforcement, allowing them to quickly narrow down Oput’s whereabouts. The Sparks police deployed a drone for aerial support as officers approached.

Washoe County Sheriff Darin Ballam expressed gratitude, saying, “This case highlights the importance of collaboration between local law enforcement and community members in ensuring public safety.” He thanked the citizens who recognized Oput and acted promptly to notify authorities, stating their swift response was crucial.

Oput was serving a 90-day jail sentence for misdemeanor offenses including possessing drug paraphernalia and failing to maintain proof of insurance.

Additionally, the sheriff acknowledged the contributions of the Sparks Police Department and Story County Sheriff’s Office in the successful search operation.