An inmate who walked away from a state correctional facility last week and later reportedly took a hostage remains at large as law enforcement agencies intensify their search across eastern Haskell County and surrounding areas.
R obey L. Butler, 36, unlawfully walked away from the Jackie Brannon Correctional Center in McAlester at around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 18.
Butler, identified by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODC) as inmate #2021548, was reported missing later that evening.
On Friday, authorities confirmed he had taken a hostage. The hostage has since been located safe, but Butler remains on the run and is be- lieved to be traveling on foot.
Officials said multiple agencies assisted in the search near the Red Hill and Keota areas on the eastern side of Haskell County.
Residents in those communities and nearby towns, including Vian, where Butler is known to have ties, are urged to remain vigilant.
“If you see Butler or know of his whereabouts, do not approach him and immediately call 911,” authorities warned.
Butler is described as a white male, 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing about 195 pounds, with black hair and blue eyes.
History of charges
Butler is currently serving a six-year sentence for child neglect out of Sequoyah County.
Court records show he was formally charged Feb. 19 in Pittsburg County District Court with escape from the DOC following last week’s walkaway.
His criminal history in the region spans several cases.
In March 2024, Butler was charged in Sequoyah County District Court with child neglect, two counts of child abuse, false report of child abuse, and neglect or refusal to compel a child to attend school. He later entered a no contest plea to those charges.
In a separate federal case, Butler was sentenced in July 2025 to three years probation for possession of a stolen firearm.
That charge stemmed from a joint investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Sallisaw Police Department and the Sequoyah County Sheriff ’s Office.
According to court documents, Butler was found in possession of a semi-automatic rifle on Nov. 7, 2023. Authorities later determined the firearm had been reported stolen in McCurtain, located in LeFlore County. Butler entered a guilty plea on Jan. 13, 2025.
Ongoing search
Law enforcement presence has increased in rural areas east of Keota as officers continue ground searches and follow up on tips.
Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the hostage incident but reiterated that Butler should be considered dangerous.
Residents are encouraged to secure homes, vehicles and outbuildings and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Anyone with information regarding Butler’s location is urged to call 911 or contact local law enforcement.
Authorities stress that the situation remains active and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
