Washoe County deputies search for escaped inmate

RENO -- Authorities continued searching Friday for an inmate who escaped from the Washoe County Jail.

Anthony Tyler, 18, was last seen in a woodworking shop Thursday afternoon. He apparently used tools to cut through a fence, sheriff's deputies said.

His jail clothes were later found just west of the jail, leading authorities to believe someone may have helped him in the escape, Deputy Michelle Youngs said.

Tyler is classified as a nonviolent felon. He was arrested March 9 on several counts of possession of a stolen vehicle.

Youngs said inmates classified as nonviolent qualify for the work program taught by a civilian who teaches woodcraft and is responsible for their supervision. The inmates build household items, such as furniture, that are later sold.

"We run a risk of having to put them in situations where security is lower, and this person took advantage of that," Youngs said.

"He was classified to be in the outer perimeter. However, because of the fact that he has escaped and is running from deputies I would caution the public."

Tyler is described as 5-foot-8, 165 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes.