Escapee’s brother arrested

Published 12:00 am Saturday, August 30, 2008

WINDSOR – A second person is in Bertie-Martin Regional Jail charged with helping Danyashi Wood escape from the same facility.

Detective Sgt. Ed Pittman of the Bertie County Sheriff’s Office said Gary Lee Wood, 30, of Marion Lane in Murfreesboro was arrested Wednesday evening and charged with felony aid and abet escape from confinement. He was picked up by the Hertford County Sheriff’s Office and turned over to Bertie County.

He is now in the Bertie-Martin Regional Jail under a $100,000 cash bond.

Gary Wood is charged with aiding his brother, Danyashi, in the latter’s escape from the regional jail in Windsor on July 30.

D. Wood was in the Bertie-Martin Regional Jail after having been convicted of assault with a deadly weapon, assault on a government official, resist, delay and obstruct, being a habitual felon and driving while license revoked. He was sentenced to 93-121 months in prison just days before his escape.

On July 30, Wood escaped from the regional jail facility when other inmates reportedly created a distraction allowing him to flee the facility. After escaping, he allegedly stole a Bertie County Schools maintenance vehicle and fled to the Duck Thru convenience store located on U.S. 13/17. He has been on the lamb ever since.

Wood is being sought on both local and federal warrants for charges relating to his escape. Felony warrants have been drawn for felony flight to avoid confinement. He is also sought on local charges including escape from confinement, felony larceny of a motor vehicle and possession of a stolen vehicle.

G. Wood was the second person arrested in connection with his brother’s escape. Laketa Lavone Gordon, 21, was arrested earlier this month and charged with felony aid and abet escape. She was also placed under a $100,000 cash bond and confined in the Bertie-Martin Regional Jail.

Officials continue to seek Danyashi Wood and are continuing to ask for any information anyone has as to his whereabouts.

“We are investigating every avenue,” Bertie County Sheriff Greg Atkins said. “We would appreciate any help citizens may be able to provide us.”

D. Wood is described as a black male standing 5’-9” and weighing 160 pounds. He has a light to medium complexion with black hair and brown eyes.

Det. Pittman said the three currently facing charges in the escape may not be alone. He said the investigation could lead to other charges against others, including more members of Danyashi Wood’s family.

Anyone with information as to Wood’s whereabouts is asked to call the Bertie County Sheriff’s Office at 794.5330.