Carlos Watts, a 38-year-old resident of Kalamazoo, has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for escaping from a halfway house where he was serving time for a previous federal drug conviction. U.S. Attorney Mark Totten, in collaboration with local law enforcement, announced the sentencing. Additionally, Watts faces a murder charge in connection with the disappearance of Heather Kelley, for which he will be prosecuted upon completing his federal sentence.
Escape and Murder Allegations
Watts, previously convicted for drug trafficking and firearm possession, escaped from the Kalamazoo Probation Enhancement Program (KPEP) halfway house. Prosecutors argue that Watts fled due to his involvement in the murder of Heather Kelley, who went missing on December 10, 2022. Upon police questioning the following day, Watts cut off his ankle monitor using scissors taken from KPEP, prompting a two-day manhunt before his arrest in Battle Creek.
Watts received a 156-month federal prison sentence in 2013 for his role in cocaine distribution, conspiracy to possess with the purpose to distribute, and possession of a handgun to support narcotics trafficking. His latest escape occurred at the end of his prison sentence, resulting in his transfer to the KPEP halfway home.
Law enforcement promptly responded to Watts’ escape, notifying the public of the potential danger he posed. Subsequent attempts to apprehend him resulted in a standoff at a Battle Creek residence, where Watts barricaded himself before surrendering to the authorities. The FBI and local agencies, including the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Department, Portage Police Department, Battle Creek Police Department, and Michigan State Police, played a crucial role in the investigation.
Commitment to Justice
U.S. Attorney Mark Totten expressed concern over Watts being a threat to the community, emphasizing the collaborative effort to ensure public safety and hold criminals accountable. The FBI, through Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, reiterated its commitment to justice for Heather Kelley and urged the public to provide any tips that could aid the ongoing investigation.
It is crucial to remember that a criminal charge is an accusation, and defendants are deemed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law. This is relevant to the state murder case that was filed on January 10, 2024. Watts’ guilt in the murder case will be ascertained by the legal system, and continued cooperation between the judicial system and law enforcement is essential to a just conclusion.
READ ALSO: Ohio Mom Charged with Theft by Deception for Faking Daughter’s Cancer Diagnosis