***UPDATE***

Hardyville, Ky. (August 22, 2023) – The Kentucky State Police, Post 3, in Bowling Green, Hart County Sheriff’s Office and Hart County Jail staff, has located and apprehended Jason L. Cotton at approximately 6:00 a.m. this morning.  Mr. Cotton was charged with Escape 2nd and was lodged in the Hart County Detention Center.

Original Press Release Below:

Hardyville, KY. (August 21, 2023) – Troopers with Kentucky State Police, Post 3 are currently searching for a Hart County inmate who was assigned to work release in the Hardyville area. Jason L. Cotton, described as a 34 year old white male, approximately 5′ 8″ tall and weighing approximately 150 pounds walked away from a work release near Memorial Elementary School located at 1400 North Jackson Highway (US 31-E) in Hart County.  Cotton was last seen wearing black shorts and a white shirt.

Cotton was incarcerated at the Hart County Jail for the offenses of Burglary 3rd degree, Bail jumping 1st degree, Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 1st degree, and Criminal Mischief 1st degree.

The investigation is being conducted by Trooper Hayden Phillips. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Jason Cotton should contact Kentucky State Police, Post 3 at 270-782-2010.  Citizens may also report tips anonymously through the KSP app.  The app is available for iPhone, iPad and Android applications and can be easily downloaded free of charge through Apple and Google Play stores.

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