News Summary
Authorities in Augusta are searching for Stacy Huggins, a convicted murderer who escaped from the Augusta Transitional Center during a work release. Huggins failed to return on September 4, raising public safety concerns. Local residents express alarm over his participation in the program, given his violent past. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information to come forward as law enforcement increases their presence in the community.
Augusta, GA – Authorities are actively searching for Stacy Huggins, a 55-year-old convicted murderer who escaped from the Augusta Transitional Center during a work release program. Huggins went missing on September 4, 2025, after failing to return to the center from a work assignment at 4337 Wilson Road in Hephzibah, prompting concerns regarding public safety.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office reported that investigators believe Huggins walked away from the work site during the day. The announcement was made via social media, urging the public to help locate him. Described as being 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 136 pounds, Huggins has been incarcerated since July 19, 1990, following his conviction for murder.
Huggins was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after pleading guilty to murdering a man in 1990 by shooting him in the head while heavily intoxicated. During his sentencing, he expressed remorse, attributing his actions to his drinking problem. His release for work purposes raised eyebrows among local residents, especially given his history of violent crime.
Community members living near the worksite have voiced concerns about the lack of immediate notification regarding Huggins’ escape. Many are troubled by why someone with such a violent past was allowed to participate in a work detail. Parents and residents near children’s facilities have reported heightened anxiety due to the incident, expressing a strong desire for better communication in similar situations moving forward.
Despite Huggins’ long history of incarceration, authorities believe he may have ties to Atlanta, but his precise destination after fleeing remains undetermined. The community’s safety is a top priority, and locals are encouraged to remain vigilant. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is requesting anyone with relevant information to contact them at 706-821-1020 or dial 911.
The escape raises significant concerns over the procedures surrounding work release programs for violent offenders. Local authorities are expected to conduct a thorough review to ensure public safety and to determine how Huggins was permitted a work assignment in light of his serious criminal history.
As the search continues, law enforcement agencies are increasing their presence in the area and working diligently to locate Huggins. The community remains on high alert, hoping he will be apprehended swiftly and safely.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Convicted Murderer Escapes Work Detail in Augusta
Former Police Chief’s Daring Escape Shakes Up Prison System
Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Work Release Program
- AJC
- Google Search: Augusta Criminal Justice System
- WJBF
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
