- Jacob D. Wermann escaped from a work-release program by cutting off his ankle monitor and fleeing a job site in Lake City on Wednesday.
- Columbia County deputies captured Wermann less than 20 hours later after a brief foot chase near NW Ernest Green Glen on Thursday morning.
Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies captured an escaped work-release inmate Thursday morning, less than 20 hours after he allegedly cut off his ankle monitor and fled a job site in Lake City.
According to a CCSO release sent Thursday, Jacob D. Wermann, 41, was taken into custody on Thursday after deputies received information about his possible whereabouts near NW Ernest Green Glen, off U.S. Highway 441 North.
Wermann was working at an industrial business off SE Highway 100 on Wednesday when he cut off his ankle monitor, took a co-worker’s bicycle and fled, according to the CCSO release.
Deputies responded around 5 p.m. Wednesday and searched the area but were unable to locate Wermann. A be-on-the-lookout alert was issued.
On Thursday morning, detectives responded to NW Ernest Green Glen after receiving information about Wermann’s possible location. Upon arrival, they were told he had run into nearby woods to hide from law enforcement.
Deputies established a perimeter and apprehended Wermann on NW Jamie Glen following a brief foot chase.
Wermann had been housed at the Bridges of Lake City work-release center after an April 2026 conviction for fleeing and eluding law enforcement. He was sentenced to 22 months of confinement.
Wermann was charged with escape and theft.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact CCSO at 386-719-2005. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers of Columbia County at 386-754-7099 or visit Crime Stoppers of Columbia County.