Don Steven McDougal, indicted for the capital murder of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, has been moved to Tyler County Jail for visitation purposes.
Texas VINE, an automated notification service, informs registered individuals of changes in the suspect/offender status and court events via a toll-free number and website.
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An incorrect message was sent out via VINE stating that McDougal had been released, when in fact, he had been transferred. The notification read:
“This e-mail is to inform you that DON MCDOUGAL with offender number 15948 was released from custody on 06/12/2024. If you have any concerns about your immediate safety, contact your local law enforcement agency, or if you have an emergency, call 911.”
According to the Polk County District Attorney, the term “released” was mistakenly used instead of “transferred.” McDougal was moved to Tyler County Jail in Woodville at his attorney’s request for visitation purposes.
McDougal did not appear in court on Wednesday for an uncontested hearing. Both parties had previously agreed that his presence was not required. The next hearing is scheduled for August 21 at 2 p.m.
In February, Audrii Cunningham’s body was found in the Trinity River after a five-day search following her disappearance. The Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the primary cause of her death was “homicidal violence with blunt head trauma.”
SEE ALSO: Audrii’s Law: Family of murdered 11-year-old Livingston girl fights for changes to Texas law
McDougal, the accused killer of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, was indicted on April 22 on two counts of capital murder by a Polk County grand jury.
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