Trusty, work programs end because of escape

KENTON - Hardin County Sheriff Craig Leeth has canceled the county's trusty and work release programs after a prisoner walked away from the county jail yesterday morning.

Jody Spangler was discovered missing around 7 when a corrections officer went to get him for breakfast. He had been in the laundry room as part of the trusty program, which allows inmates to work on the jail grounds.

He was the first inmate to take part in the program since it was reinstated in July. Retired Sheriff George Smith had eliminated the program several years ago.

Mr. Spangler, 30, was serving three 90-day sentences on misdemeanor charges. He is now charged with a felony escape.