JACKSON -- Ricky Lee Wheeldon, convicted in Jackson of conducting a criminal enterprise, has escaped.
The 53-year-old was arrested in November 2010 after police raided his home and seized truck loads of stolen property and controlled substances.
Wheeldon, who was out on a $500,000 surety bond, never returned from lunch Tuesday during the final day of trial and is now on the loose, according to the Jackson County Sheriffs Office.
The jury found him guilty shortly thereafter on nine of the 10 counts he faced, the most serious of which is racketeering. He also was convicted of felony firearm possession (his second such offense), possession of methamphetamine, receiving and concealing stolen property, and possession of cocaine.
Because he is an habitual fourth offender, Wheeldon could face life in prison, according to Jackson County prosecutor Mark Blumber. The judge can't sentence him until he's arrested.
Blumer also says Wheeldon should be considered dangerous, noting he already served a 15-year prison term for assault with intent to murder.
Sheriffs deputies say Wheeldon has numerous contacts and is believed to have fled the Jackson area.
They're asking for anyone with information to call 517-787-0212 and are offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
Leo's Bail Bonds is offering a $5,000 reward to help catch Wheeldon. It's on the hook for $500,000 if he isn't caught.
Wheeldon is a white male, 5-foot-9 and 180 pounds, with brown eyes and gray hair.
