Inmate Back in Jail After Escape During Storm

DAHLONEGA, Ga. – An escaped inmate is back in the Lumpkin County jail today after he escaped from custody just as Tropical Storm Irma was wreaking havoc on much of north Georgia.

Steven Smith, 27, of Habersham County was arrested Aug. 28 and charged with possession of dangerous drugs. He was taken to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville on August 12 where it is believed he was suffering from appendicitis.

Lumpkin County Sheriff Stacy Jarrard said Smith walked away from the hospital and was seen on video tape calling someone from a nearby convenience to come pick him up. Authorities were able to trace the call and located Smith at a campground north of Helen.

Jarrard credited the U.S. Marshall’s Service Fugitive Task Force, Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division and K-9 unit and the Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office for their quick apprehension of the fugitive.

In additional to the original drug charge, which is a felony, Smith could face an additional five years if convicted of felony escape.

Jarrard said Smith offered no resistance when he was recaptured Wednesday.

Asked if Smith was considered dangerous, Jarrard said, “Anytime someone escapes, I consider them dangerous because of their determination to remain free even though his background doesn’t show any violent crimes.”

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