GAINESVILLE, Texas – Late at night on July 21, a young man escaped from the Gainesville State School, and an exceptional team effort ensured that he was found the very next day. Employees from TJJD State Programs, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, local law enforcement, and TJJD Office of Inspector General (OIG) investigators from Gainesville, Brownwood, Mart, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin all answered the call that night. Sgt. Gabriel Medellin was contacted at approximately 2:00 a.m., on July 22. He left San Antonio for Gainesville at approximately 6:00 a.m. to meet with other investigators and begin searching for the youth. At approximately 12:25 p.m., Sgt. Medellin observed a male walking down a highway in Gainesville who matched the description of the youth. Sgt. Medellin made contact, confirmed his identity, and made the arrest without incident. He was assisted by OIG Sergeants Walker Willey (Ron Jackson) and Tom Hamilton (Mart).
OIG Chief Forrest Mitchell said, “I couldn’t be more proud of the OIG team and Sgt. Medellin for their willingness to perform their duty, regardless the hour, date, and location.” Executive Director David Reilly lauded the team’s accomplishment saying that “The hard work of the OIG mitigated what could have been a much worse situation. The Gainesville staff also provided great support in the effort. I am proud of this team.” OIG Incident Response Center personnel played a significant role in documenting and communicating wanted information to law enforcement officials and agencies throughout the state.
PHOTO: Srt. Gabriel Medellin, OIG Investigator
