Kentucky State Police searching for escaped inmate in Casey County after report of escape

Kentucky State Police are searching for an escaped inmate in Casey County after authorities identified 35-year-old Brandon Earles as a fugitive who failed to remain in custody, according to WKYT, which reported on the active search. Troopers say Earles was last seen in the area and are working with local law enforcement to locate him.

WKYT reported that Earles was last seen wearing blue pants and no shirt. Police described him as approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing about 120 pounds. Investigators have not said in the report when he escaped or what facility he escaped from, beyond confirming that he is considered an inmate who is not accounted for.

Officials are urging residents to help law enforcement with location information. In situations like this, police generally ask the public not to approach a suspect directly and to contact authorities if someone sees a person matching the description. Kentucky State Police are coordinating the search as they attempt to determine Earles’s current location and prevent any further harm.

The report indicated the search is underway as of June 25, 2026, and that police are using the details of Earles’s physical appearance to assist the public and officers in identifying him. The effort is centered on Casey County, where police say Earles was last seen.

Public safety officials typically emphasize that escaped inmates can pose unpredictable risks. The Kentucky State Police search follows standard procedures used when an inmate is reported missing from custody, including public notification using a suspect description and increased patrol activity in the relevant area, WKYT reported.

Family and community impact can be immediate in cases like this. Local residents may see increased law enforcement presence and road checks as troopers canvass neighborhoods and search for the fugitive. Neighbors are often asked to stay alert for the described clothing and physical characteristics while authorities work to confirm whether reports match the suspect.

If Earles is located, police said the next steps would be determined by officers at the scene, including detention and communication with the relevant correctional authorities. In the meantime, Kentucky State Police say they are focused on finding him and safely resolving the escape situation.

Authorities did not provide additional details in the WKYT report about charges, escape circumstances, or whether there were any injuries connected to the incident. Kentucky State Police are expected to update the public as the search progresses and more information becomes available.