Inmate Kenneth David Captured After Escape in Florence

Florence SC, September 11, 2025

News Summary

Kenneth David, an escaped inmate from a pre-release center, was apprehended by law enforcement near Freedom Florence Recreation Complex. Authorities received multiple tips from the public following his unauthorized departure during a work release program. While raised concerns circulated among residents, police have indicated that David does not pose a violent threat to the community. The incident highlights ongoing discussions about the safety and effectiveness of work release programs for inmates amid concerns of unauthorized exits.

Florence – Kenneth David, an escaped inmate from a local pre-release center, was captured by the Florence Police Department near the Freedom Florence Recreation Complex. David had been participating in a work release program when he left the area on Wednesday, prompting a search by law enforcement officials. Authorities indicate that they do not believe David poses a violent threat to the community.

The capture occurred after police received numerous tips from the public regarding David’s whereabouts. Following his unauthorized departure, officers advised residents to report any sightings of him immediately by calling 911. It was reported that David may have grown additional facial hair since he was last seen, and although he was initially wearing a South Carolina Department of Corrections outfit, he could have changed his clothing.

David had been part of the Palmer pre-release center’s work release program, which allows inmates to work with certain restrictions as they prepare for reentry into society. The Freedom Florence Recreation Complex, located off Freedom Boulevard, was the site where David was last known to be working before his escape. His departure raised concerns among local residents, leading to heightened police activity in the area.

Following David’s capture, authorities have emphasized that their primary concern is the safety of the public. Despite his escape, police do not believe he is a dangerous individual, which might ease tensions among residents in the surrounding areas. Officers are continuing to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of the community while addressing any concerns from citizens.

The incident underscores ongoing discussions about the effectiveness and safety of work release programs for inmates. These programs are designed to offer inmates opportunities to earn work experience while aiding their rehabilitation process, but they also raise questions about their management and implications for public safety when individuals choose to escape. Authorities have not disclosed further details regarding any disciplinary actions that may be taken against the facility involved or the handling of the inmate’s work assignment protocols.

Background of the Incident

Work release programs are part of correctional systems aimed at reducing recidivism by allowing inmates to gain practical experience in job settings. These initiatives operate under the belief that reintegrating inmates into society through employment can lead to more successful adaptations upon release. However, cases of escape, such as with Kenneth David, highlight the need for stringent monitoring and evaluation of these programs to prevent unauthorized exits.

Conclusion

The Florence Police Department successfully located and apprehended Kenneth David after he escaped while on work release. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities, and authorities will continue to ensure the safety and well-being of the Florence community.

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Additional Resources

• WMBF News: Authorities Asking Community to Be on Lookout for Escaped Inmate
• WPDE: Escaped Inmate Search in Florence
• Corrections1: 5 Things to Know About Supermax Prison Escapes
• Google Search: Work Release Programs
• Wikipedia: Critical Thinking

Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER

FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.