Man Arrested on Drug Charges Escapes, Recaptured in Harnett County

Harnett County, NC – A Harnett County Detention Center inmate, Angelo Rene Rivera, was recaptured shortly after escaping custody on Monday, August 4, 2025.

Rivera, who was being held on multiple drug charges, escaped from the detention center earlier in the day. A multi-agency search was launched immediately following the discovery of his absence. The Harnett County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the Lillington Police Department and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, quickly located and apprehended Rivera approximately one mile from the Sheriff’s Office.

"We are grateful for the swift and coordinated response from our law enforcement partners," said a spokesperson for the Harnett County Sheriff's Office. "Their assistance was crucial in ensuring this individual was back in custody without further incident."

The circumstances surrounding Rivera's escape are currently under investigation. Following his recapture, Rivera has been charged with Misdemeanor Escape.

No further information is available at this time as the investigation is ongoing.