Box Butte County Sheriff clarifies inmate release as search for Harley Salway III continues

UPDATE - The Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its search for Harley Salway III, an Alliance man who was inadvertently released from the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center without posting bond and is now wanted on multiple felony charges.
Salway, who appeared in Box Butte County Court in January on charges including first-degree sexual assault, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, and first-degree false imprisonment, was arrested earlier this year following an alleged violent sexual assault in January 2024. Authorities believe Salway may be in the Alliance or Scottsbluff area.
On Thursday, the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office issued a public statement clarifying the responsibility for Salway’s accidental release does not fall on the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office. The Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office acknowledged it failed to notify Scotts Bluff County officials of a separate case in which Salway was still remanded to custody under a bond order.
“Collaboration between agencies is essential,” the release stated, thanking Scotts Bluff County for its continued support. Officials said the error underscores the challenges smaller law enforcement agencies face in managing complex case logistics and inmate housing.
Law enforcement is urging the public to continue providing tips, noting that several leads have already come in from concerned citizens. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office at (308) 762-6464 or the Alliance Police Department at (308) 762-4955.
Authorities emphasized that community cooperation is crucial in ensuring public safety and the swift apprehension of Salway.
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ALLIANCE, Neb. — The Alliance Police Department and Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office are asking for the public’s help in locating a man who was mistakenly released from the Scottsbluff County Dentition Center without posting bond.
Harley Salway, who appeared in Box Butte County Court in January on multiple felony charges, was released in error and is now being sought by law enforcement. He is facing charges of first-degree sexual assault, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony and first-degree false imprisonment. The charges stem from an alleged violent sexual assault reported in January 2024.
Authorities believe Salway may be in the Alliance or Scottsbluff areas. He is described as a white male with gray hair and hazel eyes, standing 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing approximately 165 pounds.
Anyone who sees Salway or knows of his whereabouts is urged to contact the Alliance Police Department at 308-762-4955, the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office at 308-762-6464 or the Nebraska State Patrol at 308-632-1211.
Officials have not released details on how the release occurred but confirmed efforts are underway to locate and return Salway to custody.