Lincolnton, North Carolina, December 9, 2025
Roy Burgess, a 42-year-old inmate who escaped from the Lincoln Correctional Center in North Carolina, was captured in South Carolina within hours of his escape. The incident highlighted the effectiveness of law enforcement cooperation across state lines. Following a swift response from multiple agencies, Burgess’s capture underscores the commitment to community safety. Authorities are now reviewing security protocols to prevent future escapes from correctional facilities.
Lincolnton, North Carolina – December 8, 2025
Quick Capture After Inmate Escape Highlights Law Enforcement Cooperation
Roy Burgess, a 42-year-old inmate from the Lincoln Correctional Center in Lincolnton, North Carolina, was apprehended in York County, South Carolina, on December 8, 2025, following his escape from the minimum-security facility on December 7, 2025.
Burgess was serving a one-to-two-year sentence for larceny, with a scheduled release date in January 2027. He has a history of low-level felonies spanning nearly two decades. The prompt response to his escape involved collaboration among multiple law enforcement agencies, highlighting the effectiveness of cooperative efforts in ensuring community safety.
Incident Details
The Lincoln Correctional Center aims to provide rehabilitation for inmates serving non-violent offenses. Burgess’s escape from this minimum-security facility raised immediate concerns. Following his flight, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), York County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction launched a comprehensive search that ultimately led to his capture approximately 30 miles from the prison.
Upon his arrest, Burgess was detained in South Carolina, pending extradition back to North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, along with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, is currently investigating how the escape occurred, reflecting a commitment to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Reactions from Officials
Officials from both states expressed gratitude for the swift resolution of the case. Strong partnerships among law enforcement agencies played an essential role in the successful and speedy capture of the escapee. This event underscores the importance of collaboration in law enforcement, particularly regarding community safety and incident resolution.
Measures for Future Prevention
In light of Burgess’s escape, the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction is reviewing security protocols and procedures at all correctional facilities. Continuous training and coordination among agencies are considered vital components of these efforts. By enhancing safety measures, the department aims to minimize the risks of future escapes while focusing on the rehabilitation of inmates.
Background on Roy Burgess
Roy Burgess’s history of low-level felonies reflects broader issues in criminal justice and rehabilitation. The focus at the Lincoln Correctional Center is primarily on non-violent offenders, suggesting that rehabilitation rather than punishment is a key priority. The efforts to return Burgess to custody are not just about restraining an escapee, but also involve the complexities of managing low-risk offenders within the correctional system.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Inmate Name | Roy Burgess |
| Age | 42 |
| Facility | Lincoln Correctional Center, Lincolnton, North Carolina |
| Sentence | One-to-two-year sentence for larceny, with a release date in January 2027 |
| Escape Date | December 7, 2025 |
| Capture Date | December 8, 2025 |
| Capture Location | York County, South Carolina |
| Collaborating Agencies | South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), York County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation |
| Current Status | Awaiting extradition to North Carolina |
Conclusion
The quick capture of Roy Burgess following his escape from the Lincoln Correctional Center serves as a reminder of the collaborative efforts necessary to maintain community safety. As authorities reassess security protocols, it is crucial to support local businesses and communities that contribute to the steadfast resilience of the economy in the face of such incidents. Staying engaged with our local law enforcement efforts not only helps to sustain safety but also fosters a supportive environment for economic development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Roy Burgess?
Roy Burgess is a 42-year-old inmate who escaped from the Lincoln Correctional Center in Lincolnton, North Carolina, on December 7, 2025. He was serving a one-to-two-year sentence for larceny, with a scheduled release date in January 2027. Burgess has a history of low-level felonies spanning nearly two decades.
How was Roy Burgess apprehended?
After escaping from the Lincoln Correctional Center, authorities initiated a collaborative search involving the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the York County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. This joint effort led to his capture approximately 30 miles from the prison in York County, South Carolina, on December 8, 2025.
What is the Lincoln Correctional Center?
The Lincoln Correctional Center is a minimum-security facility located in Lincolnton, North Carolina. Inmates at this facility are typically serving sentences for non-violent offenses and are considered low-risk. The center focuses on rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates into society.
What is the current status of Roy Burgess?
Following his arrest in South Carolina, Roy Burgess is awaiting extradition proceedings to return to North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his escape.
What measures are being taken to prevent future escapes?
The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, is reviewing security protocols and procedures at all correctional facilities to enhance safety and prevent future escapes. Continuous training and coordination among agencies are key components of these efforts.
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