MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. — A man already convicted and sentenced to life in federal prison for a brutal double-murder that happened in Opa-locka five years ago is now a fugitive.
Miami-Dade Corrections confirmed James Edward Daniels was mistakenly released on Saturday from the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center after a procedural error that internal affairs was investigating.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office put out a flyer for Daniels on Monday that warned he was armed and dangerous and reported that deputies were assisting federal law enforcement to find him.
Daniels was one of three men who federal investigators said in 2020 bound and tortured three victims they kidnapped from a truck yard in Opa-locka, stealing drugs and jewelry. Two of the victims died; one survived.
The surrounding circumstances were unclear since he was sentenced earlier this year to life in federal prison following his 2024 conviction. His defense attorney declined to comment.
Deputies asked anyone with information about Daniels whereabouts to call M-DCSO Homicide Detective C. Santos at 305-471-2400 or Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477 to remain anonymous. There was a $5,000 reward.
The complete statement from corrections:
The Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department is committed to the highest standards of public safety, transparency, and accountability.
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, Inmate James Daniels, 60, was released from the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center due to a procedural error. The top priority of MDCR is to ensure his swift apprehension and safe return to custody. All available resources are being utilized, including the assistance of our local and federal law enforcement partners.
A full internal affairs investigation is underway to review the circumstances surrounding this incident and any potential failures to follow departmental policy. MDCR is committed to ensuring that those responsible for failing to follow policy are held accountable to the fullest extent possible.
Due to the ongoing nature of this investigation, no further details are available at this time.
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