Search continues for escaped Wadena County inmate

Ryan Petro
Photo credit Wadena County Sheriffs Department

Wadena County authorities continue to search for what they're calling a dangerous prison inmate who's been missing for nearly a day after escaping from custody.

34-year-old Ryan Petro was being transported to a court appearance in Wadena when he got away just before 3:00 p.m. on Monday.

An employee of the Wadena County sheriff's office said Tuesday morning that Petro was "still on the loose."

Petro had been in jail since Sept. 28 for misdemeanor obstruction legal process, misdemeanor disorderly conduct, misdemeanor damage to property, misdemeanor fleeing on foot and felony first degree burglary.

Authorities say Petro was dressed in an orange shirt and was handcuffed when he escaped

He is considered dangerous and if anyone sees him they should immediately call 911.

The Wadena County sheriff's department is urging people living in the immediate area to lock their homes, cars, and outbuildings, and to report any suspicious activities.