PORTAGE, Wis. — A Wisconsin inmate who escaped from a Columbia County prison earlier this year said the experience was worth it since he got to see his first sunrise in 18 years.
Thomas E. Deering appeared virtually for a plea and sentencing hearing in Columbia County Circuit Court on Wednesday. Representing himself, Deering pleaded guilty to a felony count of escape and criminal arrest. He was sentenced to three additional years of prison time to be served consecutive to his current sentence and two years of extended supervision.
Deering and another inmate, James Newman, escaped from Columbia Correction Institution in April. The men were arrested the following day after showing up at a nonprofit in Rockford, Illinois.
During Wednesday’s hearing, Deering apologized for his actions and talked about life in prison. He mentioned feeling disconnected and defeated before the escape.
“Escape might seem like an extreme measure to most, but sometimes it takes extreme measures to revitalize what is within us,” Deering said. “There is nothing more invigorating that to embark on an adventure that puts it all on the line.”
Deering talked about his senses being on overdrive during the escape. He also said he was moved by simply watching the sun rise and trees swaying in the wind.
“I think most people lose sight in the magic of our world because, your honor, because they get too caught up in the hustle and bustle of life,” Deering told the judge.
The escape prompted a statewide search for Deering and Newman.
Deering has previous convictions for kidnapping, sexual assault, burglary, battery by a prisoner and escape. While being arrested in Illinois, authorities said Deering bragged about being the only Wisconsin prisoner to escape from two maximum-security prison.
Newman has convictions for kidnapping, escape, theft and discharging a firearm. Authorities said he also escaped from a supervised living facility in 2012.
A woman who worked in the kitchen of the prison has been charged with helping the men escape. Another woman, whose boyfriend served time with Deering and Newman, was also charged.
The Wisconsin Department of Corrections launched 13 personnel investigations since this escape. Seven employees were fired, 1 staff member was suspended, 1 staff member was cleared and four others resigned during the course of those investigations.
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