Sheriff: Arkansas jail releases wrong inmate

RUSSELLVILLE — Arkansas authorities are investigating a mix-up at a county jail after workers accidentally released an inmate.

The Pope County Sheriff's Office says 43-year-old Jeffrey Hale was set free on June 29 but taken back into custody the next day. Officials say Hale was in the booking area waiting for processing with another man who shared the same first name. They say Hale signed release documents indicating he was the man set for release.

The sheriff's office says an investigation into the release is ongoing and unspecified action is being taken by the detention center administration. Officials say additional unspecified charges will be filed against Hale.

An office spokeswoman said she didn't know if Hale has an attorney.

Upcoming Events