Inmate Escapes from Work Crew, Statewide Search Launched

Lakeview, Oregon- Donald Jones, an inmate with the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC), escaped custody after walking away from a work crew at the Pacific Pine Wood Mill, located at 17634 US Highway 395, at approximately 7:36 a.m. on Monday, January 27, 2025.

Jones, 39, is described as a white male, 6 feet tall, weighing 275 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. According to the DOC, Jones was last seen wearing blue jeans and institution-issued clothing, which was discovered after his departure.

Jones has been in DOC custody since June 4, 2024, following convictions for Attempt to Elude a Police Vehicle and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle in Coos County. His earliest release date was scheduled for July 22, 2025.

He was incarcerated at Warner Creek Correctional Facility, a minimum-security prison in Lakeview that houses approximately 486 inmates nearing the end of their sentences.

The DOC Fugitive Apprehension Unit and the Oregon State Police are actively investigating the incident. Authorities advise the public not to approach Jones if spotted. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to contact the Oregon State Police at 1-800-452-7888, their local police department’s non-emergency line, or the DOC Fugitive Apprehension Unit at 503-569-0734.

Warner Creek Correctional Facility inmates, including Jones, are typically within four years of release and often participate in supervised work programs in the community. DOC officials stated that updates on the situation will be provided as new information becomes available.

Further details about Jones’ escape or his current location have not been disclosed. Medford Alert will continue to monitor this incident and provide updates as they become available.

UPDATE: Jones was taken into custody by the California Highway Patrol at approximately 4:53 p.m., Monday, January 27, 2025, in Humboldt County, California