On Christmas Day, Drew Johnson, a convicted murderer, was recaptured after escaping from the South Mississippi Correctional Institution on Christmas Eve, sending ripples of anxiety through the local community. Johnson, 33, was serving for multiple violent crimes, including the 2016 murder of an acquaintance whom he stabbed more than two dozen times.
According to the Mississippi Department of Corrections, the escape took place around 3:30 PM CST, prompting immediate alerts and warnings from local law enforcement agencies. The Greene County Emergency Management office shared information about Johnson's escape as tensions heightened. Authorities described him as "desperate" and "very, very dangerous," urging the community to remain vigilant during the normally festive holiday period when people tend to let their guard down.
The dramatic events leading up to his recapture unfurled quickly. After escaping, Johnson made several desperate attempts to procure transportation and weaponry, even attempting to breakinto a vehicle on Deer Run Road near the prison, where he reportedly stole a shotgun. Fortunately, the gun was unloaded and he abandoned it when he could not find the keys.
Chief Deputy Brad Warrick recounted Johnson's capture, noting, "He was sitting Indian-style beside the road... I think he was pretty much ready to go back to jail." Johnson had sustained cuts on his body from the razor wire during his escape attempt. Another inmate had attempted to join him but was caught between the prison's fences and needed medical attention.
The search for Johnson involved coordinated efforts from multiple law enforcement agencies. Drones were deployed from neighboring counties, showcasing the collective urgency to locate the escaped inmate. "We had assistance all the way from Clark County, Alabama... Petal P.D. sent a drone with flier over so we flew drones most of the night," Chief Deputy Warrick said.
By Wednesday afternoon, Johnson was found along Highway 57, where he had seemingly resigned himself to returning to custody, indicating fatigue from the events of the previous day. Upon his recapture, Johnson was transported back to the Mississippi Department of Corrections, where he awaits possible transfer to another facility.
Johnson's criminal history raises alarming questions about public safety. After pleading guilty to murder, he received a life sentence on Valentine’s Day 2022. His violent past includes not only the fatal stabbing of his acquaintance but other serious offenses, including attacking fellow inmates and setting fires during incarceration.
The George County Sheriff's Department previously alerted the community through social media to stay cautious, especially during Christmas, when many might be more forgiving and willing to help strangers. "Call your family and alert them... Be vigilant and be careful," the post read. The department's concerns proved valid, as Johnson's escape occurred just one day before the holiday.
Authorities have not only emphasized the importance of vigilance but also reflected on the concerns surrounding Johnson's escape. Sheriff’s spokesperson presented relief after ensuring Johnson was back behind bars. “It’s always concerning when someone with such a violent background escapes, especially during this time of year,” they remarked.
The South Mississippi Correctional Institution, where Johnson escaped, is one of the newest facilities of its kind, located near Leakesville, Mississippi. Its establishment was aimed at modernizing the state's prison systems, yet incidents like Johnson's escape raise questions about the adequacy of security measures.
While Johnson is now recaptured, the fear he instigated during his fleeting hours of freedom will linger among the Greene County residents. The holiday season, meant for joy and celebration, served as the backdrop to this alarming scenario. Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and preventing similar incidents from occurring.
Authorities indicated Johnson will remain incarcerated, at least for now, as discussions about transferring him to another facility are underway. The narrative of his escape and recapture not only serves as a reminder of the inherent dangers posed by violent offenders but also the tightrope walk law enforcement must navigate during times when the public is most vulnerable.
