At approximately 3:15 p.m., the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Justin Scott Woodruff, 39, slipped away from a routine work detail. Officials say Woodruff, serving time for a Violation of Probation, simply walked off and is now on the run.
Woodruff is impossible to miss — he bears multiple tattoos, the most striking being a bold “Joker” inked across his neck. Authorities are urging anyone who sees him to call 911 immediately.
Sheriff Darrell Dix spoke with a mix of disbelief and determination. He said, “At this time we are still gathering information, but we believe he was picked up by another party after he left.” In other words: the escape may not have been a solo move.
What makes this case particularly shocking is that in more than 15 years, the Spalding County detention system had never seen an inmate simply walk away during a work detail — until now. “When he is caught it will be a memorable experience for him, whoever picked him up, and whoever he is with,” the sheriff warned. “I hope his time on the run will be worth it for him and them.”
Investigators say they are actively reviewing surveillance video, interviewing witnesses, and coordinating with nearby law enforcement agencies. Roadblocks, traffic alerts, and patrol increases may follow soon.
Despite extensive efforts, no credible sightings have been confirmed yet. Authorities say Woodruff’s tattoos — especially the neck “Joker” — make him fairly recognizable, which may work in their favor.
If you have any information about Woodruff’s whereabouts — or believe you may have seen someone matching his description — you’re asked to contact 911 right away. Don’t approach him — let law enforcement do the work from there.