LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — An offender who walked away from the Jean Conservation Camp in September 2024 is back in custody, Nevada corrections officials said.
Joan Wenger, 71, was arrested on Sunday, May 31, by the Port of Seattle Police in Seattle, Washington, according to the Nevada Department of Corrections (NDOC).
NDOC said Wenger was admitted on Dec. 1, 2021, from Douglas County and was serving a 120-month sentence for vehicular homicide. Additional charges are pending.
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Corrections officials noted a “walkaway” occurs when an offender leaves a camp or work assignment without authorization. Unlike an escape, a walkaway does not involve breaching a secured perimeter.
NDOC add that the camps are intended as a transitional step between a secured institution and release, designed to help offenders reintegrate by gradually increasing freedom.
The Jean Conservation Camp is located about 30 miles south of Las Vegas, near Primm. In total, the Nevada Dept. Of Corrections has eight camps and two transitional housing located in Las Vegas, Carson City, Indian Springs, Pioche, Carlin, and Reno.
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