Escaped Inmate at Large Arrested

San Antonio, TX – Lance Stephens was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (LSFTF) this evening on charges involving escape from a county jail and felon in possession of a firearm.

Stephens, 29, was wanted by the Barry County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) in Cassville, MO. Earlier this month, a state warrant was issued for Stephen's arrest when he and two other inmates allegedly escaped custody from the BCSO jail. The other inmates had since been captured, but Stephens remained at large. Earlier today, a federal warrant was issued for Stephen's arrest involving felon in possession of a firearm. During the investigation, members of the U.S. Marshals Service Midwest Violent Fugitive Task Force (MWVFTF) determined that Stephens fled Missouri to hide out in Texas. As a result, the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force was requested to assist in his apprehension.

This evening, Deputy U.S. Marshals located Stephens at a hotel in the 6500 block of West Military Avenue, here in San Antonio.

Stephens was arrested without incident and is currently being held in custody at the Karnes County Detention Facility while awaiting extradition to Missouri.

"Stephens fled one state to another in an attempt to avoid capture," said U.S. Marshal Susan Pamerleau. "Due to the persistence and collaborative efforts of deputies and task force officers, avoiding capture was not possible."

Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (San Antonio):

• New Braunfels Police Department
• Bexar County Sheriff’s Office
• Bexar County District Attorney’s Office
• Texas Office of the Attorney General
• Texas Department of Public Safety
• Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Office of the Inspector General
• Immigration & Customs Enforcement – Office of Detention & Removal
• U.S. Marshals Service