The Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) announced on Thursday that an inmate escaped from his work assignment at the Heart of Alabama Food Bank in Montgomery. The department says the disappearance occurred at around 3 p.m., prompting a city‑wide search for the missing individual.
According to WSFA, the inmate is identified as Joseph Win Wampler, a 44‑year‑old white male who stands 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs 142 pounds. He was last seen wearing a brown state‑issued uniform. Wampler is described as having numerous tattoos, including the facial markings “2025” and “Proverbs 31:10‑13,” as well as designs of stars, flames, wings with a halo, a lion, a deer, the word “Faith,” the phrase “Simple Man,” and a female figure with wings and a halo.
Waka.com adds that Wampler is serving a 16‑year sentence for second‑degree receiving stolen property. He was sentenced on April 28 2022 in Madison County. The outlet notes that he was being held at the Frank Lee Community Based Facility in Deatsville when assigned to the food‑bank job.
Both outlets emphasize that ADOC is urging anyone with information to contact ADOC Communications at 800‑831‑8825. WSFA also suggests contacting CrimeStoppers for tips. The department stresses the importance of a swift recapture to ensure public safety and to maintain the integrity of its work‑release program.
Residents of Montgomery are reminded that the inmate’s escape could affect local volunteer operations and that the food bank continues to serve the community while the search proceeds. ADOC has not indicated whether additional security measures are being implemented at the site.
What’s next: ADOC will continue its investigation and public outreach. Anyone who sees Wampler or has relevant information is asked to call the department’s hotline or submit a tip to CrimeStoppers as soon as possible.
