Linda Avila, Escape, West Virginia 2019

BECKLEY, W.Va.—A federal inmate has been sentenced to four months in prison for escaping from a minimum security prison in West Virginia.

Linda Avila, 55, was previously admitted to walking away from the Federal Prison Camp (FPC) at Alderson on January 29, 2019. She was serving a twelve-year sentence for conspiracy to defraud the government and mail fraud.

According to United States Attorney Mike Stuart, Avila was immediately captured a short distance from the prison grounds after her escape attempt. Her sentence for escape will run consecutively to her prior sentence.

“The only thing Avila accomplished by trying to escape, is extending her already lengthy stay at FPC Alderson,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons conducted the investigation, which led to Avila’s sentencing. United States District Judge Frank Volk presided over the hearing, and Assistant United States Attorney John File handled the prosecution.

Linda Avila’s escape and subsequent capture highlight the consequences of attempting to flee from prison. Her four-month prison sentence serves as a reminder of the severity of the crime.

As a society, we must prioritize public safety and hold individuals accountable for their actions. In this case, Avila’s decision to escape from prison has resulted in additional time behind bars.