The Iowa Department of Corrections said that Justin Kestner, 25, was captured just south of Geneseo, Ill. at about 9:52 A.M. on Sunday, July 5. Spokesman Fred Scaletta said Kestner escaped from the Iowa State Penitentiary in Fort Madison earlier that day.
Prison staff last observed Kestner at 1:30 A.M. during an inmate count. They determined he was missing during another count at 4:45 A.M.
The Illinois State Police said it learned of the escape at 7:22 A.M.
It said the Henry County (IL) Sheriff's department found an abandoned vehicle that was believed to have been stolen by Kestner. An Illinois State Trooper eventually located Kestner walking along Illinois Route 82, near Interstate 80.
Kestner allegedly ran into a corn field. He was taken into custody after exiting the cornfield.
No information has been provided as to exactly how he escaped and whether he received any assistance.
Kestner is serving a 10-year sentence from Woodbury County for two counts of 1st Degree Theft.
Prison representatives alerted all law enforcement agencies following the escape. Nearby residents were also encouraged to lock their doors and call 911 if they spotted Kestner.
The prison was placed on restricted movement as soon as the escape was discovered.
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