Delaware Department of Corrections searching for missing offender

Authorities in Dover say they are searching for an inmate, who never returned from an authorized pass.

The Delaware Department of Correction says that 61-year-old James Hayes has failed to return from an authorized treatment pass, issued by the Morris Community Corrections Center in Dover.

Hayes is described by law enforcement as a white man, standing 5′ 11″ tall, weighing 195 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. The inmate apparently has tattoos on his right arm, and left shoulder.

He reportedly uses the aliases Steven Wills, Joseph Willis, Jim Jones, Steve R. Wills, James Haepes, Jim Hayes, Joseph Will. Hayes last known address is in Milford, Delaware.

Officials say that Hayes’ location is unknown, and unauthorized at this time, so a warrant for escape after conviction has been filed and approved. According to the report, Hayes’ current offense is violation of probation with the original charge of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

It is important to keep in mind that Community Corrections Centers are Level 4 facilities, where the Department of Correction manages offenders who are transitioning back into the community. So, these centers are not secured like Level 5 prisons, meaning offenders are permitted to the leave the facility to go to work, seek jobs or attend approved treatment sessions.

Officials ask that anyone with information on this offender should call 1-800-542-9524 or call your local police department.