Inmate escapes custody, apprehended over 24 hours later

On Monday, October 28, at approximately 2:44 p.m., Ryan Paul Petro, 34, of Wadena, escaped from custody during transition to a court appearance.

Ryan Petro was apprehended by law enforcement in the former Super One parking lot. An ambulance was called in to evaluate Petro before he was escorted back to jail. – photo courtesy of Amber Rowan

Petro has been in custody since September 28, for Misdemeanor Obstructing Legal Process, Misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct, Misdemeanor Damage to Property, Misdemeanor Fleeing on Foot and Felony Conditions of Release- 1st Degree Burglary.

An area on the north edge of Wadena was heavily searched by the Wadena County K-9 Unit, Todd County Drone, State Patrol Helicopter, Otter Tail County Drone and numerous law enforcement personnel due to a tip that Petro was observed in that area.

Petro was dressed in an orange shirt, tan pants and was handcuffed at the time of his escape. He was considered dangerous.

Due to the inmate at large, several schools went into a soft lockdown. Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools said on social media that all doors were either locked or manned. A police presence was at both schools.

Bertha-Hewitt School also operated in a soft lockdown. Their liaison officer was on campus for additional security....

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