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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Inmate walks away from Hoopfest work crew

Gary J. Todd
A work crew inmate from Geiger Corrections Center who was helping set up Hoopfest equipment in downtown Spokane escaped Friday night. Gary J. Todd, 29, was serving time for a DUI conviction. He was scheduled for release in October, according to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. Todd’s crew finished work about 11:30 p.m. Friday near the INB Performing Arts Center. He then asked to use a portable toilet. When he didn’t return after 5 minutes, a guard checked on him and found his discarded jumpsuit and goggles, according to the news release. Geiger sent five crews to help set up for Hoopfest in downtown. Geiger officials believe the escape was planned, given that Todd apparently had a change of clothes waiting for him. He is not considered a threat to the community, the news release said. But anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to call 911 immediately.