Wed Sep 18 16:43:00 UTC 2024: ## Scottsbluff Man Apprehended After Absconding From Work Release
**Scottsbluff, NE** – A Scottsbluff man who absconded from work release on Wednesday morning was apprehended by local law enforcement after a search that lasted over an hour.
Aaron Wilder Jr., 21, was taken into custody without incident near the 000 block of W. 23rd Street. Wilder had been working in the 1800 block of Broadway when he left the work release program at approximately 9:55 a.m.
During the search, Scottsbluff Public Schools and Gering Public Schools went on secure status, meaning no one was allowed in or out of school buildings. This was done at the request of the Scottsbluff Police Department due to the disturbance caused by the inmate’s absence.
Scottsbluff Police Capt. Lance Kite stated that officers utilized various cameras in the area to help locate Wilder. This allowed them to narrow down the search area to a specific location where he was ultimately found.
Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman emphasized that Wilder was being held on misdemeanor charges and was not considered dangerous. Multiple agencies actively searched for him during the time he was on the lam.
The incident highlights the importance of community collaboration in ensuring public safety.
First Piper 