Fort Worth, Texas, February 4, 2026
A Tarrant County inmate named Victor Castillo was apprehended shortly after escaping from a sheriff’s office laundry facility. He fled wearing only minimal clothing but was captured about 30 minutes later in a dry riverbed. This incident follows another escape just a day prior, emphasizing the urgency for enhanced security measures within the correctional system. Local schools were briefly placed on secure status during the search, reflecting the quick response of law enforcement in ensuring community safety.
Tarrant County Inmate Captured After Escaping Laundry Facility
A Swift Capture Highlights Local Law Enforcement’s Vigilance
Fort Worth, Texas – A Tarrant County inmate was apprehended shortly after escaping from a sheriff’s office laundry facility on Tuesday afternoon, marking the second escape in as many days. This incident, while concerning, underscores the importance of diligence and quick action by local law enforcement, which remains a critical component in maintaining safety across communities in the region.
The swift resolution of the escape also illustrates the resilience and commitment of law enforcement to public safety, emphasizing the balance between allowing inmates opportunities for rehabilitation and ensuring the protection of the community. The local context is important, as Fort Worth thrives when its citizens feel secure, and effective handling of such incidents plays a vital role in that perception.
Details of the Escape
At approximately 12:45 p.m., 26-year-old Victor Castillo, a trustee inmate working at the facility located at 5400 Resource Drive in southeast Fort Worth, removed his uniform and fled on foot wearing only white boxers and a white undershirt. Deputies initiated a search and located Castillo in a dry riverbed about 30 minutes later, taking him back into custody. Castillo had been booked into the Tarrant County Jail on January 20 on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance.
Context of Recent Escapes
This incident follows a similar escape on Monday, when 27-year-old Carlos Enrique Rodriguez Romero managed to slip out of his handcuffs and flee from a transport van near the 4600 block of Mark IV Parkway. Romero was later found in a nearby trailer park and taken into custody. He had been booked into the Tarrant County Jail on December 4 on felony charges of aggravated robbery and tampering with a government record.
Response and Security Measures
In response to these incidents, Sheriff Bill Waybourn emphasized the security of the Tarrant County Jail system, stating that the escapes were isolated events and not reflective of the overall safety or daily operations of the facilities. A review of procedures is underway to prevent future occurrences. This proactive approach aims to bolster security and maintain trust in the correctional system, highlighting the importance of accountability in governance.
Impact on Local Schools
During the search for Castillo, four Fort Worth ISD campuses—O.D. Wyatt High School, TCC South Collegiate High School, Clifford Davis Elementary School, and Carter Park Elementary School—were placed on “secure” status as a precaution. The secure status was lifted once Castillo was in custody, and normal activities resumed promptly. This response not only ensured student safety during the incident but also illustrated a dedicated commitment by the school district to act quickly in emergencies.
Background on Trustee Inmates
Trustee inmates are individuals who participate in work programs and are typically assigned to low-security positions. They are considered to have earned a level of trust within the correctional system. The recent escapes have prompted a reevaluation of the security protocols associated with trustee assignments, bringing attention to the balance between allowing deserving inmates to work and ensuring community safety.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding both escapes to identify any lapses in security and to implement measures to prevent future incidents. This diligent reflection and critique of current systems will contribute to improving safety measures, thus reinforcing community confidence in local law enforcement and correctional practices.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Inmate Name | Victor Castillo |
| Age | 26 |
| Facility | Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office Laundry Facility |
| Location | 5400 Resource Drive, Fort Worth, Texas |
| Escape Method | Removed uniform, fled on foot wearing white boxers and undershirt |
| Capture Details | Apprehended in a dry riverbed approximately 30 minutes later |
| Booking Date | January 20, 2026 |
| Charges | Felony possession of a controlled substance |
| Previous Escape | Carlos Enrique Rodriguez Romero escaped on February 2, 2026, and was recaptured shortly after |
| School Impact | Four Fort Worth ISD campuses placed on “secure” status during search; status lifted once Castillo was in custody |
| Trustee Inmates | Inmates participating in work programs, typically assigned to low-security positions |
Conclusion
These recent events in Fort Worth emphasize the need for ongoing vigilance in local law enforcement and security practices. While the quick capture of Victor Castillo helps restore a sense of safety, it also highlights the necessity for continual assessment and refinement of protocols surrounding trustee programs. As Fort Worth focuses on maintaining a safe environment for businesses and communities alike, supporting proactive approaches can contribute positively to the overall stability and growth of the local area. Citizens are encouraged to stay engaged in community safety initiatives and advocate for practices that bolster public confidence in law enforcement.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
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