Inmate Escapes Work Detail in Cherokee County, Recaptured After Multi-Agency Search

Pat Brand

389 Country

On April 24, 2025, at approximately 9:15 a.m., Robert Keith Revis Jr., an inmate from Andrews, NC, escaped from a work detail at the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Firing Range in Marble, NC. The Cherokee County E-911 Communications Center (CCE911) received the report and promptly dispatched CCSO deputies, who were joined by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP), Andrews Police Department (APD), and other local agencies in a coordinated response.

Law enforcement, including two K-9 units, conducted an extensive search of the area. NCSHP and APD established checkpoints along Fairview Rd., while the Murphy Police Department fielded calls from concerned citizens reporting possible sightings of Revis. The Clay County Sheriff’s Office and additional agencies also provided support. A NIXLE Alert was issued to notify residents, clarifying that Revis was not considered armed.

Multiple tips about individuals matching Revis’ description were investigated but proved to be false. At approximately 1:45 p.m., Revis was spotted on railroad tracks in the Marble area. Following a brief foot chase, he was apprehended without incident. Revis now faces charges of Felony Escape Local Jail and Escape By Hired Prisoner, with no bond set for either offense. He is scheduled to appear in court on May 15, 2025.

Sheriff Dustin Smith expressed gratitude to the assisting agencies, including the NCSHP, APD, Murphy Police Department, CCE911, Cherokee County Emergency Management, Cherokee County Magistrate’s Office, Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, TAC 30, and the U.S. Marshals.