Procedures changed after convicted murderer mistakenly released from jail

YORK COUNTY, S.C. — The York County Sheriff's Office said it's making significant procedural changes after a murderer was accidentally released from jail at the end of February.

The sheriff said North Carolina's Department of Corrections did not provide deputies with documents explaining which inmates needed to be transported back to state prisons after court hearings. The sheriff said that had been a common practice for years.

Thomas Whitlock shot and killed a man three years ago in Charlotte. Five weeks ago, he was transported to York County Jail to deal with a drug charge.

"It's extremely irresponsible. I mean, you're letting a murderer out. It's not like you're letting a jaywalker out back on the streets. It's someone who's killing people," said Matthew Samper, who lives a mile away from the county jail.

After a month-long internal investigation, Sheriff Bruce Bryant concluded that the forms for processing inmates were "inadequate" and "not sufficiently detailed." He also said no documentation was provided indicating Whitlock needed to be returned to prison.

The sheriff said his deputies relied on unwritten practices and guidelines to make sure prisoners weren't released.

"I don't know how they can let something like that happen," Samper said. "They should keep better tabs on people like that."

Deputies will now give oral commands and reminders about incoming inmate transports, and not allow inmates to wear civilian clothing.

The Sheriff's Office has also created a new form that clearly states if inmates need to be transported to another jail or prison.

Sheriff Bryant isn't saying if anyone was punished for the accidental release, but he did confirm no one will be fired.

Eyewitness News also reached out to the state Department of Corrections. A spokesman said they "followed the proper procedures" and "provided the appropriate forms" in this case.

WSOC