A California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) inmate who walked away from the Growlersburg Conservation Camp in El Dorado County late Thursday night was quickly apprehended Friday morning, according to CDCR officials who released details of the incident Saturday afternoon.

According to officials from the CDCR, 24-year-old Dion Harvey was taken into custody without incident at approximately 5:45 a.m. Friday near the camp grounds. His disappearance was first discovered during a routine camp count at about 11:30 p.m. Thursday night.

Following Harvey’s absence, correctional staff immediately launched a search of the camp buildings and surrounding area. CDCR’s Office of Correctional Safety and local law enforcement were notified and assisted in the effort.

Harvey was transported to the Sierra Conservation Center following his capture. CDCR officials say the case will be referred to the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office for consideration of escape charges.

Harvey was originally received into state custody from San Bernardino County on April 10, 2023. He is serving a 12-year sentence for second-degree robbery with an enhancement for use of a firearm.

CDCR reports that since 1977, 99 percent of individuals who have walked away from an adult institution, fire camp, in-state contract bed, or community placement have ultimately been apprehended.

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