Media Advisory
Rockville Correctional Facility Officer Arrested in Connection with Escape
Indianapolis, Indiana (August 5, 2008)--Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) Commissioner Edwin G. Buss announced today the arrest of Rockville Correctional Facility Officer Scott A. Spitler in connection with yesterday's escape of Sarah Pender from the Rockville Correctional Facility.
Spitler was arrested by Deputies from the Parke County Sheriff's Office at approximately 2:00 a.m. this morning after investigators developed information that Spitler aided Pender's escape yesterday afternoon by hiding her in an IDOC vehicle and driving her out of the facility. Pender was picked up outside of the facility by an associate and her whereabouts are currently unknown.
Spitler faces potential charges of Assisting a Criminal (Class C Felony), Official Misconduct (Class D Felony), Sexual Misconduct (Class C Felony), and Trafficking with an Inmate (Class C Felony and Class A Misdemeanor).
IDOC Commissioner credited the tenacious effort of IDOC investigators in quickly developing leads that led to Spitler's arrest. "While I am embarrassed for the IDOC and deeply angered and disappointed in the officer's conduct that led to the offender's escape, I am proud that my Department moved quickly to identify those involved in aiding in the escape," Buss said.
Buss said the intensive investigation to apprehend Pender and any others who may be involved is continuing, and he welcomed the public's assistance in providing any information that may assist investigators.
Pender is from Nineveh , IN and is described as a Caucasian female, 5'8" tall, 200 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes. Distinguishing marks include two tattoos: a target on her upper right leg and a faded butterfly on her chest.
Spitler was hired as a Correctional Officer on 5/27/03.
Media Contact:
Douglas S. Garrison
Chief Communications Officer
(317) 232-5780
