HENNING, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation continues to search for Curtis Ray Watson, who escaped from the West Tennessee Penitentiary on Wednesday.
Thursday, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced the State would offer a reward up to $25,000 for information leading to the apprehension, arrest and conviction of Curtis Watson.
“We need Tennesseans’ help,” said Governor Bill Lee. “I urge any person with information that can help us locate and apprehend this individual to contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation immediately.”
Watson, 44, was found missing after the facility went on lock down following the discovery of a potential homicide. At 11:30 a.m. officials found Debra Johnson, 64, deceased inside her residence on the grounds of the West Tennessee State Penitentiary. There was indication inside her residence that foul play was involved.
Ms. Johnson was a 38-year veteran employee of the state of Tennessee.
Immediately following the discovery an inmate count was conducted. Watson was found missing from work detail. At that time the manhunt was initiated.
Watson is 5’11”, 140 lbs, brown eyes, long gray beard. TBI issued additional photos of Watson in the event he has attempted to alter his appearance.
Watson has a variety of tattoos across his body.
Since 2013, Watson has been serving a 15 year sentence for the conviction of especially aggravated kidnapping out of Henry County. His sentence was set to expire in 2025. He was previously convicted of aggravated child abuse in Carroll County, and was released in 2011.
“Rest assured, we will find this offender and bring just to the family of Debra Johnson.” said Commissioner Tony Parker, Tennessee Department of Corrections.
Watson should be considered extremely dangerous. If you see him do not approach. Immediately call 911.
Anyone who has information concerning the whereabouts of this escaped inmate please contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-TBI-FIND.